Amateur-built SPEZIO II N66JH accident near Newville, Pennsylvania

Probable cause

A loss of engine power due to carburetor ice as a result of the pilot's delayed use of carburetor heat.

NTSB analysis

While the airplane was in level flight about 1,000 feet above the ground, the pilot added carburetor heat. The engine immediately began to run roughly, so the pilot attempted to add power, and the engine then lost power. The pilot performed a forced landing to a turnpike; however, as he flared the airplane for the landing, it impacted the rear of a moving tractor trailer before dropping to the ground. The landing gear collapsed, and the airplane nosed over a guard rail, which caught part of the airplane's landing gear. No preaccident mechanical anomalies were noted, and when tested, the engine started easily. Ambient temperature and dew point conditions were conducive to serious carburetor icing.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09LA098 for the full record.