Engine Failure
The pilot reported that the fuel tanks were filled at the departure airport. During the flight, the engine quit. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but failed. The pilot then consented to a passenger, who is an airline pilot with more experience, assuming pilot in command.
Forced Landing
The new pilot in command radioed approach control, informing them of the situation and requesting a heading to the nearest airport. The aircraft landed approximately 1 mile short of the airport in a field, where it hit a ditch. The impact was hard; the aircraft spun around and came to an abrupt stop.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact anomalies. The carburetor heat was found in the off position.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported about 51 minutes prior to the accident: wind 050 degrees at 12 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, sky clear, temperature 14°C, dew point 1°C, altimeter 30.27 inHg. Weather reported about 9 minutes after the accident: wind 040 degrees at 8 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, sky clear, temperature 12°C, dew point -1°C, altimeter 30.30 inHg.
Carburetor Icing Potential
When the local temperature and dew point at the time of the accident were plotted on a Transport Canada carburetor-icing chart, their intersection fell in the "serious icing-descent power" area. Neither the pilot nor the pilot-rated passenger's written accident reports listed the use of carburetor heat. However, during a telephone interview, the pilot reported that carburetor heat was used during the forced landing.