Accident Details
The pilot reported that he topped off the fuel tanks and performed a complete preflight and run-up. The airplane was operating without issues. He requested a climb to 3,000 feet above mean sea level (msl). As the aircraft reached 1,800 to 2,000 feet msl, the engine stopped without warning. The pilot checked the fuel selector ON, pushed the mixture and throttle full forward, checked the master switch ON, the ignition switch on BOTH, and pulled the carburetor heat, all without success. He declared a MAYDAY and executed a forced landing to a golf course. During the landing roll, the airplane struck trees, resulting in substantial damage.
Investigation Findings
An inspection of the airplane found no deficiencies that would have precluded normal engine operation. The local surface weather observation reported a temperature of 19 degrees Celsius (C) and a dew point of 17 degrees C, with mist reported in the area. Given the temperature/dew point spread, the Transport Canada carburetor icing chart indicated the potential for moderate icing at cruise power or serious icing at descent power.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported that he was aware of the potential for carburetor icing but chose not to use carburetor heat during the flight prior to the loss of engine power. Inspection of the maintenance logbooks revealed that the last annual maintenance inspection was conducted on June 10, 2005. Neither the airplane owner nor the mechanic informed the pilot that the airplane needed an annual maintenance inspection or a ferry permit before the flight could be conducted.