Accident Overview
On June 3, 2023, at approximately 0900 central daylight time, a Piper PA-25-235 airplane, registration N8843L, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Carrington, North Dakota. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was uninjured. The flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 as an aerial application operation.
Pilot Actions Before Departure
According to the pilot, after engine start, he taxied to the end of the runway to perform an engine run-up and allow the oil temperature to rise. During the run-up, he checked the magnetos and activated the carburetor heat. When he turned on the carburetor heat, he observed the expected drop in rpm, then turned it off. The pilot then remained on the ground for approximately 10 minutes at idle power, waiting for an increase in oil temperature and a decrease in oil pressure, as it was the first flight of the day and the engine was cold.
In-Flight Power Loss and Forced Landing
Shortly after departure, while turning onto the crosswind leg of the traffic pattern, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing to a gravel road. During the landing roll, the airplane impacted a drainage ditch, resulting in substantial damage to both wings.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Meteorological Conditions and Carburetor Icing Probability
At the time of the accident, the reported temperature was 75°F and the dewpoint was 62°F. When plotted on a carburetor icing probability chart, these values indicated that the airplane was operating in an environment conducive to serious carburetor icing at a glide power setting. (Reference: FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin CE-09-35.)