On July 17, 2008, a Piper PA-15 Vagabond (registration G-BTOT) was involved in an aviation accident near Near Sedgefield, Co. Durham, GB. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Carburettor icing as the cause of the engine stoppage, as reported by the pilot. This summary draws on records from the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).
A Piper PA-15 Vagabond experienced engine roughness after takeoff, suspected carburettor icing, and made a forced landing in a grass field, sustaining minor damage. The pilot was uninjured.
History of the flight
The pilot of Piper PA-15 Vagabond G-BTOT departed from Fishburn Airfield for a local general handling flight. After an uneventful first circuit and landing, the pilot backtracked and took off again. During the climb through approximately 1,000 feet, the engine began to run roughly. The pilot applied carburettor heat, but the engine then stopped, likely due to carburettor icing. He attempted to land at a nearby farm strip; however, during the approach, the engine cut out completely, forcing a landing short of the strip in a grass field.
Damage
The aircraft touched down heavily, resulting in minor damage to the landing gear and airframe.
Pilot's comments
The pilot noted that the weather conditions at the time were conducive to carburettor icing and considered this to be the cause of the engine stoppage.
Probable cause
Carburettor icing as the cause of the engine stoppage, as reported by the pilot.