Incident Overview
A pilot reported that approximately 15 minutes after takeoff, during cruise flight, the engine experienced a total loss of power. In response, she pulled the carburetor heat control knob and initiated a forced landing to a grassy field.
Landing and Damage
During the landing roll, the airplane collided with heavy vegetation, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing.
Weather Conditions
About 30 minutes prior to the accident, a weather station located approximately 10 nautical miles from the accident site reported a temperature of 48°F and a dew point of 43°F. According to the report, these weather conditions were conductive to a high probability of carburetor ice formation, with the potential for serious icing at cruise power.
Postaccident Examination
During the postaccident engine examination, the engine was prepared for an engine run. It was started and run with no mechanical failures or malfunctions noted that would have precluded normal operation.