Incident Overview
On an arrival at an unspecified airport, the aircrew began a descent from 8,000 to 7,000 feet mean sea level at 0151 Hawaiian Standard Time. At 0155 HST, they were cleared for a visual approach from 7,000 feet and initiated a rapid descent with 20° of flaps and approximately 25 inches of manifold pressure. The aircraft was maneuvered to intercept the instrument landing system localizer and glide slope as a reference.
Flight Sequence
After intercepting the glide slope at about 3,000 feet, the pilot-in-command called for 2,250 revolutions per minute and gear extension. While descending through approximately 2,000 feet, the pilot noticed the aircraft slowing down and descending below the glide slope, prompting a call for a power increase to 27 inches of manifold pressure. At that time, the aircrew observed that the engines were not responding and had lost power. Subsequently, a forced landing was executed in a sugar cane field with the landing gear in a transient position.
Fuel Selector and Carburetor Ice
The fuel selectors were found positioned to fuel tanks containing fuel, but the positioning during the descent was not verified. The observed temperature and dew point were 72°F and 65°F, respectively. According to icing probability charts, these conditions were barely within the envelope for carburetor ice formation.
Occupants
All three occupants of the aircraft were uninjured.
Probable Cause (Official Findings)
Occurrence #1: Loss of engine power (total) - nonmechanical, during approach - FAF/outer marker to threshold (IFR). Findings: (1) Weather condition - carburetor icing conditions; (2) Carburetor heat - improper use of - pilot in command; (3) Fuel system, carburetor - ice; (4) Aircraft performance, two or more engines - inoperative.
Occurrence #2: Forced landing during landing - flare/touchdown.
Occurrence #3: In-flight collision with terrain/water during landing - flare/touchdown. Findings: (5) Light condition - night; (6) Wheels up landing - performed - pilot in command.