Flight Details
According to the pilot, the flight began with a departure from a private airstrip. After approximately 30 minutes of flying in the local area, the pilot returned to the airstrip and performed an approach and full-stop landing. The approach was conducted with the carburetor heat engaged.
Accident Sequence
Following the landing, the pilot taxied the airplane back to the runway end, completed a run-up, and departed again. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noticed that the airplane was not climbing normally. At about 300 feet above ground level, the engine coughed twice and lost all power. The pilot executed a forced landing onto a school football field. During the landing roll, the airplane struck a chain-link fence.
Post-Accident Observations
After exiting the airplane, the pilot observed a small puddle and dripping fluid from the engine cowling. The pilot concluded that this was likely ice melting from the carburetor. The following morning, the pilot returned to the accident site and started the engine, which fired immediately and ran smoothly.
Weather Conditions
Reported weather conditions included a temperature of 54°F and a dew point of 51°F. When these values are plotted on a carburetor icing probability chart, they fall within the area conducive to the formation of serious carburetor icing at cruise power.