Accident Details
On July 18, 2012, at approximately 1045 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-18-150, registration N2991Z, operated by Barnstormer Elite Signs Inc., was substantially damaged when it ditched into the Atlantic Ocean after experiencing a total loss of engine power while maneuvering near North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed. The flight originated from Grand Strand Airport (CRE) at about 0900 and was conducted as a local banner tow operation under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the pilot was towing a banner near the shoreline at an altitude of approximately 500 feet above ground level when the engine began to suddenly lose power. The pilot applied carburetor heat, but the engine continued to lose power and then stopped completely. Unable to restart the engine, the pilot performed a forced landing to the water. He exited the airplane before it sank to a depth of about 30 feet. Fueling records indicated that the airplane's fuel tanks were topped off the evening prior to the accident, and the airplane had been operated for about 2 hours since that refueling. The airplane was recovered on July 22, 2012.
Damage and Examination
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the empennage. Examination of the engine after recovery did not reveal any catastrophic mechanical malfunctions. The engine was rotated via the propeller, and valve train continuity was observed. Thumb compression was attained on all cylinders. However, saltwater was observed in the carburetor, gascolator, and cylinders, and the fuel system was compromised. The engine exhibited significant damage consistent with saltwater corrosion, which precluded a check of the fuel and ignition systems.
Aircraft Information
The airplane, manufactured in 1959, was operated under a restricted category airworthiness certificate for aerial advertising. It was equipped with a Lycoming O-320-B2B, 160-horsepower engine, which was overhauled by Triad Aviation, Inc., Burlington, North Carolina, on June 19, 2012. At the time of the accident, the airplane had accumulated about 13,240 total hours, and the engine had operated for about 150 hours since the overhaul and 50 hours since its most recent 100-hour inspection, performed on July 9, 2012.
Weather Conditions
The weather reported at Grand Strand Airport around the time of the accident included a temperature of 30 degrees Celsius and a dew point of 23 degrees Celsius. Review of an FAA Carburetor Icing Envelope chart placed the reported temperature and dew point in the area of the chart indicating "icing at glide and cruise power."