Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot-in-command's delay in identifying carburetor ice and improper use of carburetor heat.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot and non-rated passenger were climbing out after departure when the pilot decided the ceiling was too low for maneuvering and decided to return to the airport. Upon entering the traffic pattern the pilot reduced power, added carburetor heat, and the engine quit. After several attempts to restart the engine at various throttle settings the pilot made a forced landing and struck debris on the ground, substantially damaging the airplane.
Source record
Factual narrative
On January 2, 1994, about 1030 central standard time, N3089J, a Cessna 150-E operated by the Wesley Flyers Club Inc. crashed near Raymond, Mississippi, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 instructional flight. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged and the instructor and student pilot received minor injuries. The flight originated about 20 minutes earlier. The instructor stated that he reduced the throttle, applied carburetor heat and the engine failed. He attempted a forced landing to a field and the airplane struck a stump on landing roll. Review of the operators manual for the Cessna 150 revealed, in the before landing checklist, that full carburetor heat is be applied before closing the throttle. -