On June 25, 1996, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N84538) was involved in an aviation accident near Callahan, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's premature decision to reduce power, following application of carburetor heat, when engine operation became rougher after experiencing roughness due to carburetor icing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During cruise at 1,200 feet, the engine ran rough. Carburetor heat worsened the condition. Emergency landing in a field resulted in right main gear collapse. Post-accident engine run showed no malfunction.
Accident Summary
While in cruise flight at 1,200 feet, the engine began to run rough. The pilot applied carburetor heat, and the engine roughness became worse. He immediately selected a field and began an approach for an emergency landing. During the landing rollout in the field, the pilot made a turn to the left to slow the aircraft, and the right main landing gear collapsed.
Postaccident Examination
After the accident, the engine was started and operated to full power with no evidence of failure or malfunction. The carburetor heat operated normally during the postaccident engine run.
Weather Conditions
The temperature and dew point were reported to be 95 and 73 degrees, respectively. According to icing probability charts, conditions were conducive to carburetor ice.