Flight Planning
An airline transport certificated pilot intended to fly to a remote river. The intended route of flight was obscured by clouds over nearby mountain tops. The pilot decided to land toward the north on a gravel bar along the river. The landing area was approximately 800 feet long and 100 feet wide.
Landing Attempt
The pilot made three low passes over the gravel bar before beginning the landing approach. When abeam the landing threshold, the pilot applied engine carburetor heat. As the airplane descended toward the ground, the pilot noticed that the gravel bar contained larger rocks than he liked. He initiated a go-around about 30 feet above the ground by applying full engine power.
Go-Around and Accident
During the go-around, the engine sputtered and the airplane settled onto the gravel. As the airplane touched down, the engine returned to full power. The airplane lifted off but collided with willow bushes and nosed over.
Carburetor Icing
The pilot reported encountering continuous carburetor icing during the flight. He applied carburetor heat every few minutes.