What happened
A student pilot was flying over his residence to identify a suitable location for a new airstrip when the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of engine power. The pilot reported that while making an approach at a specific location, he attempted to add power, but the engine failed to respond.
In response to the power loss, the pilot checked the carburetor heat and confirmed it was in the on position. He then elected to perform a landing in a nearby field. During the landing roll, the aircraft's wheels sank into the snow, causing the plane to flip onto its back. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
An examination of the unspecified aircraft revealed no mechanical anomalies. Weather data from Minot International Airport, located 51 nautical miles from the accident site, indicated a temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit and a dew point of 19 degrees Fahrenheit.
According to the DOT/FAA Publication CT-82/44 regarding light airplane piston engine carburetor ice detector sensitivity, the recorded temperature and dew point conditions indicate a probability of carburetor icing occurring during both glide and cruise power settings.