Accident Overview
On September 17, 2024, at about 1055 mountain daylight time, a Cessna 172N (registration N739JU) was substantially damaged when it impacted trees and terrain during an off-airport forced landing near Arobles, Colorado. The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the passenger was seriously injured. The flight was operated as a personal flight under 14 CFR Part 91.
Flight Details
The pilot and a friend departed on a local flight. At approximately 1,800 ft above ground level, the airplane entered an area of light rain. As a precaution, the pilot applied carburetor heat. Despite the carburetor heat being engaged, the engine began to run rough and lose power. Unsure whether the carburetor heat was exacerbating the situation, the pilot cycled it on and off several times. The pilot also completed the checklist for engine roughness. Unable to restore smooth engine operation or maintain altitude, the pilot initiated a forced landing. During the landing, the fuselage and right wing sustained substantial damage.
Fuel Information
The pilot estimated that the flight departed with 26 gallons of fuel. The accident occurred approximately 35 minutes after departure. According to airplane performance charts, the expected fuel consumption rate for the Cessna 172N is between 5 and 8.5 gallons per hour. After the accident, ample fuel was drained from the wing tanks before wreckage recovery; however, the exact amount was not documented.
Weather and Icing Conditions
The recorded temperature and dew point near the accident site were conducive to “serious icing” at cruise engine power settings. The pilot stated that the carburetor heat system was functioning properly when checked before departure. Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular 20-113 recommends that pilots regularly use carburetor heat under conditions known to be conducive to atmospheric icing, particularly when relative humidity exceeds 50 percent or visible moisture is present.