Overview
On January 13, 2008, at 1534 Pacific standard time, a float-equipped Piper PA-12, registration N7243V, sustained substantial damage when it collided with terrain following a loss of engine power. The accident occurred near Centerville, Washington, approximately 10 miles north of The Dalles Airport (KDLS). The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was operated by the pilot and owned by HBC Properties of Portland, Oregon. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local personal flight, which was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 without a flight plan. The flight had originated from KDLS about 1435.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that he was maneuvering near a private airstrip at an altitude of 300 feet above ground level (AGL) when the engine lost power. During a descending left turn with a 40-45 degree bank, with carburetor heat activated, the airplane entered a slip attitude. The pilot attempted to regain power by applying full throttle, but the engine did not respond. The aircraft subsequently struck the terrain in a nose-low attitude, nosed over, and sustained substantial damage to the firewall and empennage.
Post-Accident Examination
A certified airframe and power plant mechanic examined the engine and found no mechanical anomalies. The examination did note trace amounts of water in the carburetor's accelerator pump.
Weather Conditions
Automated weather recorded at KDLS near the time of the accident indicated a temperature of 48 degrees Fahrenheit and a dewpoint of 43 degrees Fahrenheit. Data from a carburetor icing probability chart showed that these temperature conditions were favorable for icing at glide and cruise power settings. The pilot stated that the carburetor heat appeared to function properly during the preflight run-up.