Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to carburetor icing.
NTSB analysis
The amateur-built airplane's engine lost power after takeoff, and the pilot performed an off-airport landing. The airplane struck trees during the landing. A postaccident examination revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The temperature and dew point about the time of the accident were favorable for carburetor icing. Further, the Ford Model A engine that was installed on the airplane is noted for its susceptibility to the formation of carburetor ice. Additionally, the pilot reported his belief that the carburetor heat system of the airplane was ineffective at flight speeds and that the loss of power was due to the formation of carburetor ice.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA288 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 9, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rose Hill, Kansas
- Nearest airport
- Cook Airfield (K50)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built Pietenpol Aircamper
- N-number
- N728MK
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.