What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-03-09 involved an Erco 415-C, registration N1121J, at Ivins, UT.

Intermittent Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing in Ercoupe 415C (N1121J)

On March 9, 2001, an Erco 415-C (registration N1121J) was involved in an aviation accident near Ivins, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The unsuitable terrain on which to make a forced landing. A contributing factors was the carburetor icing conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot experienced intermittent loss of engine power during cruise, suspected carburetor icing, applied carburetor heat, but insufficient altitude forced a landing on rough desert terrain, causing extensive damage.

Accident Overview

During cruise flight, the pilot of an Ercoupe 415C reported an intermittent loss of engine power. Suspecting carburetor icing, as the Stromberg carburetor fitted to the aircraft is reportedly prone to such conditions, the pilot immediately applied carburetor heat.

Pilot Actions

The carburetor air temperature gauge indicated 10 degrees Celsius. Despite applying carburetor heat, the engine continued a pattern of power cycling on and off in intervals of approximately 4 to 5 seconds. The pilot left the carburetor heat on but realized the rate of descent would not allow reaching the destination airport.

Landing and Damage

The pilot executed a landing on rough desert terrain. The landing resulted in extensive damage to both wings, the nose, and the left main landing gear.

Weather Conditions

According to the Carburetor Icing Graph, based on the nearest weather observation station, a temperature of 12 degrees Celsius with a dew point of 4 degrees Celsius could result in serious icing at glide power. The pilot reported a temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, which according to the graph could result in serious icing at cruise power.

2001-03-09: Erco 415-C (N1121J) — Ivins, UT