Incident Overview
On 22 November 2016, a private pilot was conducting a cross-country flight from Przasnysz to Warsaw Babice Airport (EPBC) via Bobrowniki. The aircraft, a Cessna 175C registered SP-FYZ, was operated by a private owner.
Sequence of Events
At approximately 14:23 to 15:35 local time, while flying near the town of Błonie, the pilot experienced interruptions in engine power. The pilot reported this to FIS Warsaw, who coordinated with Okęcie Approach to allow a direct routing to EPBC. To safeguard altitude in case of further engine issues, FIS Warsaw instructed the pilot to climb to 2,500 ft, which was accomplished.
Upon arriving in the vicinity of EPBC, the pilot established contact with Babice Info and was given landing priority for Runway 10. While on final approach, the engine began to run more roughly and then cut out completely just above the runway. Despite the complete loss of engine power, the pilot performed a normal landing and rollout.
After clearing the runway by taxiing onto a vacant taxiway, the aircraft was towed to a hangar.
Post-Flight Inspection
The aircraft had been adequately fueled, and the carburetor heat was used during the flight. After the incident, an engine run-up and systems check were conducted, including magnetos, carburetor heat, and propeller pitch; all functioned normally. As the cause of the engine cutout was not immediately evident, the aircraft was referred for additional inspection.
During this follow-up inspection, a loose duct that supplies warm air to the carburetor was discovered. According to the investigation report, this condition could have led to icing in the engine fuel system.
Meteorological Conditions
Weather conditions on the day of the incident were conducive to the formation of carburetor icing.
Pilot Information
The pilot held a valid medical certificate and the necessary licenses for the flight. No injuries were reported; the sole occupant was uninjured.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the probable cause of the engine interruption and cutout was the loose carburetor warm-air duct, which may have allowed carburetor icing to develop. No safety recommendations were issued.