Accident Overview
On February 11, 2010, about 1605 Alaska standard time, a tailwheel-equipped Piper PA-18-150 airplane, registration N278Z, sustained substantial damage when it collided with terrain during an emergency descent and off-airport landing. The accident occurred about 3 miles northwest of King Cove, Alaska. The airplane was being operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a visual flight rules (VFR) public use flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91.
Pilot Statement
In a written statement dated February 18, the pilot reported that he and a passenger were conducting an aerial observation/survey at reduced airspeed and engine rpm. He further reduced the rpm to 1900, and shortly thereafter the engine lost power. Believing carburetor ice might be responsible, he immediately applied carburetor heat, full throttle, and full rich mixture. Some power was restored, but then the engine lost all power. The pilot checked the fuel selector, tank gauges, and ignition, but the engine did not respond. He elected to land straight ahead on a rough, unimproved, winding road. During the landing roll, he was unable to maintain directional control, and the airplane ran into a ditch on the right side of the roadway, where both wings struck the ground. The pilot stated that prior to the loss of engine power there were no mechanical problems. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.
Post-Accident Examination
Due to the remote location, the NTSB did not examine the airplane. On February 14, an engine run was conducted at Cold Bay, Alaska, by the operator's certificated aircraft mechanics. The engine started and ran normally. The carburetor was removed and sent to an independent maintenance shop, where it was determined to function normally, with all wear within serviceable limits.
Weather Conditions
According to a carburetor icing chart, the conditions in which the airplane was operating—temperature 3 degrees C and dew point -1 degree C—were conducive to serious icing at any power setting.