Cessna 150 N22931 accident near Shreveport, Louisiana

Probable cause

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB analysis

While performing touch and go landings the airplane’s engine lost power while in the traffic pattern. The pilot reported that the engine “bumped” twice, and the propeller stopped. The instructor verified carburetor heat and engine controls and attempted to restart the engine. Engine power could not be restored, and a forced landing was performed to a nearby river. Substantial damage was sustained to the wing spar.

A postaccident examination of the engine by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors did not find any mechanical anomalies. They found 2 gallons of fuel in the left tank and 1 gallon in the right tank. However, the pilot reported that the fuel tanks were full prior to takeoff. Using the Carburetor Icing Probability Chart located in the FAA’s Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin CE-09-35, Carburetor Icing Prevention found that the airplane was operating in an area conducive for serious icing at cruise power, but the pilots reported the use of carburetor heat.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20LA046 for the full record.