On January 15, 2001, a Piper PA-18-A-150 (registration N6971D) was involved in an aviation accident near Sun City, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS, A FACTOR WAS WEATHER CONDITIONS FAVORABLE FOR CARBURETOR ICING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, the engine lost power and quit. Pilot attempted to restore power but failed, landing off-airport. Examination found fuel level undetermined, engine ran normally. Weather conditions were favorable for carburetor icing; no mechanical failure found.
Event Description
Following takeoff, during the initial climb, the engine experienced a loss of power and subsequently ceased operation. The pilot attempted to restore full engine power but was unsuccessful. Consequently, the pilot selected an off-airport area for an emergency landing.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed an undetermined quantity of fuel onboard. When the engine was tested, it operated normally with no anomalies detected. No evidence of mechanical engine failure was discovered.
Weather Conditions
A review of available weather data indicated that conditions were conducive to carburetor icing at the time of the event. This information was considered in the context of the engine power loss.
What happened in the 15 Jan 2001 Piper PA-18-A-150 accident near Sun City, FL?
After takeoff, the engine lost power and quit. Pilot attempted to restore power but failed, landing off-airport. Examination found fuel level undetermined, engine ran normally. Weather conditions were favorable for carburetor icing; no mechanical failure found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Jan 2001 involved a Piper PA-18-A-150, registration N6971D, at Sun City, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS, A FACTOR WAS WEATHER CONDITIONS FAVORABLE FOR CARBURETOR ICING
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