Piper PA-28-181 N419W accident near Flint Township, Michigan

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to apply carburetor heat during the landing approach, which resulted in a loss of engine power from carburetor ice.

NTSB analysis

The pilot planned a short cross-country flight to two different airports with a return to his original airport. Due to concerns with weather conditions in the area, the pilot requested to air traffic control to execute the option and then return to his original departure airport. While on a 1-mile final approach, about 500 ft above ground level, the engine lost total power. An attempt to restart the engine was unsuccessful. Unable to make the runway, the pilot executed a forced landing on a railroad track. During the forced landing, the airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and engine mount.

Postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. An undetermined amount of fuel remained in the fuel tanks at the accident site. Weather conditions reported at the time of the accident were conducive for serious icing at any power setting. The pilot stated that he did not apply carburetor heat during the approach. Therefore, it is likely that carburetor ice accumulated during the approach and descent, which resulted in a loss of engine power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA161 for the full record.