Incident Summary
A pilot experienced a loss of engine power while descending, resulting in an emergency landing in a corn field. During the landing roll, the airplane flipped over and came to rest inverted.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported that the airplane was in cruise flight when he reduced the throttle to idle and began a gradual descent to about 500 feet. At that altitude, he advanced the throttle, but the engine did not respond and only developed a "fast idle." Despite attempts, the pilot was unable to restore engine power. He located a corn field and performed an emergency landing.
Investigation
Examination of the airplane following the accident did not reveal any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions. The cause of the engine's failure to respond to throttle input was not determined from the examination.
Weather Conditions
A weather observation from an airport approximately 20 miles east of the accident site reported a temperature of 62°F and a dew point of 55°F. According to a Federal Aviation Administration carburetor icing probability chart, these conditions were favorable for moderate icing at cruise power or serious icing at glide power.