On May 3, 2003, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N8240P) operated by Kyle Forsgren was involved in an aviation accident near Skwentna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to use carburetor heat, which resulted in the accumulation of carburetor ice, a partial loss of engine power, and a subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported that while turning downwind about 100 feet above ground, a downdraft pushed the airplane closer to the ground. Despite applying full power, the engine did not produce full power, and the airplane landed hard on a frozen river, damaging the wings, fuselage, and landing gear.
Incident Summary
The pilot reported operating the airplane approximately 100 feet above the ground when initiating a downwind turn. During the turn, the airplane encountered a downdraft that pushed it closer to the ground. The pilot immediately applied full power, but the engine did not appear to produce full power, and the airplane continued to descend.
Landing and Damage
Due to the airplane's low altitude, the pilot stated he was unable to select a better landing area than a nearby frozen river. The airplane landed hard on the ice, resulting in damage to the wings, fuselage, and landing gear.
Pilot's Belief Regarding Engine Power
The pilot indicated that he believed the engine did not produce full power due to carburetor ice, which had accumulated since he had been operating the engine at a reduced power setting without carburetor heat.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 May 2003 Piper PA-18-160 accident near Skwentna, AK?
A pilot reported that while turning downwind about 100 feet above ground, a downdraft pushed the airplane closer to the ground. Despite applying full power, the engine did not produce full power, and the airplane landed hard on a frozen river, damaging the wings, fuselage, and landing gear.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 May 2003 Piper PA-18-160 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 May 2003 involved a Piper PA-18-160, registration N8240P, operated by Kyle Forsgren, at Skwentna, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to use carburetor heat, which resulted in the accumulation of carburetor ice, a partial loss of engine power, and a subsequent forced landing. Factors contributing to the accident are a downdraft, the pilot operating the airplane at a low altitude, the presence of carburetor icing conditions, and…