Flight Maneuvers
The pilot conducted a series of maneuvers involving two nearby airports. At the first airport, the pilot performed five full-stop taxi back landings without using carburetor heat. After circling his father's house two times, the pilot flew to a second airport. There, he performed two simulated engine failures in the traffic pattern by retarding the throttle to idle on each occasion. Each landing touched down just past the numbers of the 5,000-foot-long asphalt runway.
Engine Performance
During the second go-around, the pilot observed that the airplane required approximately two-thirds of the runway to accelerate to 60 knots but continued the takeoff. After leveling off to accelerate, the pilot began a climb at the departure end of the runway, noting the tachometer indicated 2,000 rpm. While at traffic pattern altitude, the engine began to surge.
Forced Landing and Collision
In response to the engine surge, the pilot maneuvered the airplane for a forced landing on an expressway. While descending, the airplane collided with a power line, followed by a vehicle, and then the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of pre-impact failure or malfunction. The pilot reported using carburetor heat only during the engine run-up before the initial takeoff.
Operational Factors
Review of the pilot's operating handbook indicated that carburetor heat is required to be applied before throttle reduction. Additionally, review of an icing probability chart revealed that the conditions were favorable for serious icing with descent power.