Accident Overview
An airplane sustained substantial damage when it nosed over during a forced landing in a field. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, exited the aircraft uninjured after the accident.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the airplane operated normally during taxi, run-up, and takeoff. After departing the traffic pattern, he climbed to an altitude of 2,500 feet mean sea level (msl). While flying over a wooded area, he reduced engine power from 3,000 rpm to 2,600 rpm and initiated a shallow descent. He then made a wide circle over the wooded area until the airplane was heading south along a lakeshore.
At approximately 2,000 feet msl, the pilot added power but stated that the engine "didn't produce any thrust." He pulled the carburetor heat on, but the engine still did not respond. The pilot turned back toward the airport and continued attempting to restore engine power. However, he determined that he did not have sufficient altitude to reach the airport and executed a forced landing to a field. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed over.
Post-Accident Inspection
An inspection of the airplane following the accident revealed no pre-existing anomalies. The airframe and systems were examined, and no mechanical or structural issues were found that could have contributed to the loss of engine power.
Weather Conditions
At 1435, weather reported approximately 19 nautical miles to the north of the accident location indicated a temperature of minus 1 degrees Celsius and a dew point of minus 4 degrees Celsius. According to the Transport Canada Carburetor Icing Chart, these conditions (temperature minus 1°C and dew point minus 4°C) fall within the range associated with a potential for "Serious Icing - any power" or "Serious Icing - descent power."