Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper use of carburetor heat. Contributing to this accident were weather conditions which were conducive to the formation of carburetor ice.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the initial takeoff climb, the engine lost power. The pilot initiated a 180 degree turn to execute a forced landing on the runway he had just departed. During the forced landing phase, the pilot pulled the carburetor heat on, which regained partial power to the engine. During the landing roll, the airplane skidded off the end of the runway. The pilot reported that it was damp and cold in the valley and that he had experienced carburetor icing.
Source record
Factual narrative
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