On June 12, 1998, a Bellanca 7GCBC (registration N87027) was involved in an aviation accident near Nicklesville, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for undetermined reason. A factor was that weather conditions were favorable for the formation of carburetor ice. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While tracking a power line in a valley, a pilot executed a 180-degree turn and applied full power to climb, but the engine would not produce full power. The airplane collided with trees during an emergency landing.
Sequence of Events
The flight was conducted in a valley while the pilot tracked a power line. At a point along the route, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn. Upon completing the turn, he applied full power to climb out of the valley. However, the engine would not produce full power. As the pilot maneuvered for an emergency landing, the airplane collided with trees.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane at the accident site disclosed that fuel was present in both fuel tanks, the gascolator, and the carburetor. Both magnetos produced ignition sparks when rotated. The engine examination failed to disclose a mechanical malfunction or component failure.
Weather Conditions
A review of current weather data disclosed that conditions were favorable for the formation of carburetor ice.