The pilot reported that the Piper PA22’s engine was not developing the expected engine RPMs during the takeoff and initial climb from the airport in Burlington, Wisconsin.
He noticed the airplane was not climbing well and may have trouble clearing small trees near the end of the runway. He maneuvered through a low spot in the trees after he realized he did not have sufficient runway remaining to land. He then performed a couple pitch maneuvers in an attempt to gain altitude and airspeed, which resulted in a minimal gain in altitude.
He considered applying carburetor heat, but realized it would guarantee a loss of engine power with another line of trees ahead of the airplane.
He cleared that line of trees, but then hit the next line of trees. The airplane nosed down, hit the terrain, and came to rest inverted in a residential yard.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and empennage. The pilot sustained minor injuries and the passenger was seriously injured.
The pilot speculated the reduced engine power was due to carburetor ice.
According to a carburetor ice probability chart, the atmospheric conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to icing at glide and cruise power. FAA Advisory Circular 20-113 explains: “To prevent accidents due to induction system icing, the pilot should regularly use [carburetor] heat under conditions known to be conducive to atmospheric icing and be alert at all times for indications of icing in the fuel system.”
Probable Cause: A partial loss of engine power due to the formation of carburetor ice while on the ground, which resulted in reduced climb capability and impact with trees during the initial climb.
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This August 2020 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
They say there is no such thing as a stupid question. So here goes! Since I’m not familiar with engine/ carburetor design and engineering then how is it automobile engines do not experience carburetor icing?
Carb icing it to be expected during taxi particularly with full rich mixture and OAT below 80° F. On a pretake- off run-up the mag check does not check for icing.. A full throttle should reach a minimum rpm ( depending on prop ). Applying carb heat will cause a drop in rpm but if ice is present to rpm will increase when the ice melts..