Incident Overview
A student pilot reported losing engine power while maneuvering to identify a suitable location for an airstrip near his home. According to the pilot's statement, during an approach at one location, he added power and received no response from the engine. He checked the carburetor heat, which was already engaged. Unable to restore power, the pilot decided to land on the field below.
Forced Landing and Ground Loop
The pilot described that as the airplane slowed during the landing roll, the wheels broke through the snow cover, causing the aircraft to nosed over onto its back. No injuries were reported.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane following the accident revealed no mechanical anomalies that could explain the loss of power. The engine and related systems were inspected and found to be operating normally.
Meteorological Conditions
At the time of the accident, the nearest reporting station was Minot International Airport, Minot, North Dakota, located approximately 212 degrees and 51 nautical miles from the accident site. The reported temperature was 37 degrees Fahrenheit, with a dew point of 19 degrees Fahrenheit.
Carburetor Icing Considerations
Reference to the DOT/FAA Publication CT-82/44, "Light Airplane Piston Engine Carburetor Ice Detector/Warning Device Sensitivity/Effectiveness," dated June 1982, indicates that under the observed temperature and dew point conditions, the Carburetor Icing Probability Chart shows icing occurring at glide and cruise power settings.