NTSB Factual Report

On March 5, 2018, at 1430 mountain standard time, an experimental Mac Cub airplane, N669WH, experienced a partial loss of engine power and the pilot executed a precautionary landing to a dirt road near West Point, Utah. The pilot and pilot rated passenger/owner operated the airplane under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a local area personal flight; they were not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage after coming to rest inverted. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local area flight that departed Skypark Airport (BTF), Bountiful, Utah, about 1330. A flight following flight plan was filed. The flight was destined for BTF.

According to the pilot, they were flying over a marshy area when the engine started to sputter. They found a nearby road that was about 10 feet wide and made a precautionary landing. During the rollout, the airplane encountered mud, and nosed over.

According to the pilot rated passenger/owner, he was seated in the front, and the pilot was seated in the rear of the airplane. The rear compartment is not equipped with instruments or a carburetor ice handle. When the engine began to run rough, they attempted emergency procedures, but did not active the carburetor ice. The engine was still running, but not developing enough power to remain aloft, so they decided to land.

The airplane was recovered for further examination.