Accident Details
On November 24, 2019, at approximately 1050 central standard time, a Cessna 150H airplane, registration N22931, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Shreveport, Louisiana. The flight instructor and the pilot receiving instruction were not injured. The airplane was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight.
Flight Sequence
According to the flight instructor, while conducting touch-and-go landings and on the crosswind leg, the engine "bumped" twice, and the propeller stopped. The instructor verified the carburetor heat, throttle, and mixture controls. The pilot energized the starter, causing the propeller to move, but it did not restore engine power. They performed a forced landing to a nearby river. After recovery from the water, substantial damage was found to the wing spar.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the engine by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors did not find any mechanical anomalies. The airplane's fuel tank integrity was maintained, and following recovery, approximately 1 gallon of fuel was found in the left wing and 2 gallons remained in the right wing. Both fuel quantities would be usable. The pilot reported that the airplane fuel tanks were full of fuel prior to takeoff.
Carburetor Icing Conditions
Using the Carburetor Icing Probability Chart located in the FAA's Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin CE-09-35, Carburetor Icing Prevention, it was found that the airplane was operating in an area conducive for serious icing at cruise power. The pilots reported the use of carburetor heat.