On November 25, 2000, a Luscombe 8A (registration N45537) was involved in an aviation accident near Antlers, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine experienced a gradual reduction in power, likely due to carburetor icing caused by low temperatures and a narrow temperature-dew point spread. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A single-engine airplane struck trees and terrain during the initial climb phase after experiencing a gradual reduction in engine power.
What happened
During the takeoff and initial climb phase, a single-engine airplane experienced a loss of engine power, resulting in the aircraft striking trees and terrain. Although the pilot managed to get the aircraft airborne by applying full throttle and utilizing carburetor heat, the engine failed to develop full power once in flight.
The pilot noted a gradual reduction in engine power that persisted regardless of the position of the carburetor heat control. At the time of the accident, the pilot reported a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit and a dew point of 37 degrees Fahrenheit. Weather data from the nearest reporting station, located 40 nautical miles northwest of the site, indicated a temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit and a dew point of 36 degrees Fahrenheit.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the engine's performance and the environmental conditions present during the flight. It was noted that the aircraft's aging carburetor heat mechanism was being operated in conditions characterized by low temperatures and a narrow temperature-dew point spread. These specific atmospheric conditions—where the temperature and dew point are close together—are known to be conducive to carburetor icing during cruise or climb power settings.
Probable cause
The engine experienced a gradual reduction in power, likely due to carburetor icing caused by low temperatures and a narrow temperature-dew point spread.