Candy Drop

Flying Safety, June, 2001

Courtesy ASRS Callback #254, Oct 00 NASA's Aviation Safety Reporting System

As colorful stockpiles of candy in grocery store aisles signaled the approach of Halloween and other fall holidays, several ASRS reports remind us that confections in the cockpit may not always bring sweet endings. From a GA pilot whose "candy drop" turned into a real dud:

* Events began with a descent into Low Altitude Flight (1000 feet AGL) in order to fly close to a family outing. This was at my family's farm which was out in the country, and I desired to drop a bag of candy out as [a]fun gesture. After three passes, I proceeded to turn for a fourth and dropped to 500 feet AGL in order to make the drop... After the drop was made and all was clear, I proceeded to add full throttle to depart and to land at [home) field. The adding of full throttle only produced a maximum 1800 RPMs. I pulled carb heat, applied full mixture, full throttle, and checked mag position. I was unsuccessful with power recovery and now was descending below 500 feet AGL. Power lines and trees became a big concern. I cleared power lines easily but brushed the top of trees. At this time I knew a forced landing was needed. I proceeded to land in the nearest pasture. making a clean landing. Once I had completely stopped the airplane, I called ATC to inform them of my location and good condition.

I had a certified mechanic do a thorough check of the engine and structure... The mechanic informed me that the aircraft was in normal condition and airworthy... I feel that the conditions leading up to the forced landing are now clearer. Even with temperatures over 85[degrees], the high humidity and slower flight led to carburetor icing... Application of carb heat started to occur but without much altitude, [and) there was not sufficient time for the ice to melt.

Advice from the School of Experience: "Fly the airplane first."