Flight History
The aircraft departed normally and climbed to pattern altitude when the engine began to miss and backfire. The pilot elected to return to the airport and performed a thorough magneto check, which showed no unusual indications.
After the check, the pilot took off again. At approximately 200 feet above ground level, the engine began to miss again and subsequently lost power. The pilot executed an emergency landing in a corn field located about one-quarter mile from the airport.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident investigation revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures of the engine or related systems. The examination did not identify any component defects or anomalies that could explain the reported power loss.
Conclusion
The cause of the engine's intermittent power loss during both flights was not determined by the investigation, as no mechanical issues were found.