What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-08-20 involved a Great Lakes 2T-1A-2, registration N2XG, at Bloomington, IL.

Power Loss During Takeoff Leads to Hard Landing Beside Runway (N2XG)

On August 20, 1983, a Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 (registration N2XG) was involved in an aviation accident near Bloomington, IL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot reported a loss of power at about 100 feet during takeoff, leading to a hard landing with substantial damage. The plane came to rest beside the runway, 900 feet from the departure end.

Accident Report

During takeoff, the pilot experienced a loss of power at approximately 100 feet above ground level. The aircraft had lifted off before reaching the midpoint of the runway. Due to the climb attitude and configuration, the pilot could not see the runway below and believed the aircraft was at or beyond the end of the runway.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that he lowered the nose, resulting in an immediate and rapid sink rate. There was no indication of a stall. Shortly after, the aircraft contacted the ground hard in a wings-level attitude with little forward movement. It came to rest beside the runway, about 900 feet from the departure end.

Engine Examination

An examination of the engine and fuel system revealed no preimpact discrepancies, except that the spark plugs were heavily sooted. The pilot reported that two witnesses noted smoke coming from the engine area during the climb. The temperature was 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and the elevation was 875 feet.

Damage

Substantial damage was sustained to the landing gear, cowling, and lower part of the wing area.

1983-08-20: Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 (N2XG) — Bloomington, IL