Incident Overview
A pilot was conducting a cross-country flight at an altitude of 4,500 feet when the engine rpm unexpectedly decreased from 2400 rpm to idle power. The pilot attempted to restore engine power by activating the boost pump, applying carburetor heat, and switching fuel tanks, but these actions had no effect.
Emergency Response
The pilot contacted air traffic control (ATC), informed them of the situation, and declared an emergency. ATC directed the pilot to a nearby airport and advised him to aim for runway 15. The pilot turned toward the airport but judged his approach to be too high.
Maneuvering and Forced Landing
To correct the excessive altitude, the pilot executed a 270-degree turn. During the turn, he realized that he would not be able to reach the runway. He initiated a forced landing to a highway but was unable to align the aircraft properly. Subsequently, the aircraft crashed into a marshy area.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the engine assembly and its accessories were examined. No anomalies were noted. The engine was started and operated at 2150 rpm without any issues.