N317LS

On July 16, 2000, at approximately 1200 central daylight time (CDT), an amateur built Circa-Nieuport 12, N317LS, piloted by a private pilot, was substantially damaged during a forced landing in a cornfield following a partial loss of engine power. The flight was operating under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91, and was not operating on a flight plan. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The pilot reported minor injuries. The test flight had departed a private strip 15 minutes prior to the accident.

According to a statement by the pilot, he, "Departed runway 27 for general test flight. Made several circuits of the pattern to climb up higher. Upon turning to return to the airport I experienced a partial loss of power. Unable to hold altitude and attempting to get back to the approach end of 27, I landed in a corn field."

The aircraft wreckage was moved by the owner prior to an examination by Federal Aviation Administration inspectors.

Temperature at Midway Airport, Chicago, Illinois, located approximately 39 miles to the north, was 22 degrees C, with a dew point of 17 degrees C. Using the Icing Probability Chart and the temperature and dew point, the aircraft was at risk for "serious icing". A Federal Aviation Administration inspector found that the aircraft had no provisions for the removal of carburetor ice.

The pilot, on the pilot/operator accident report form, indicated that he had accrued two hours in the accident make and model.