On March 30, 1984, a Cessna 177 (registration N30204) was involved in an aviation accident near Kelleys Island, OH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported a power loss shortly after rotation from a gravel strip. The aircraft climbed to 20-30 feet before losing power, and the tail struck trees and the ground during an attempt to maintain altitude.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot, rotation occurred about three-fifths of the way down the gravel strip. The aircraft climbed to an altitude of 20-30 feet. At that point, a power loss occurred. In an effort to maintain altitude, the pilot increased the nose attitude. Subsequently, the tail of the aircraft struck trees and then the ground. The pilot was unable to recall the airspeed at liftoff, stating that he was concentrating on obstacles at the end of the runway.
Investigation
During an engine test run conducted after the event, the engine performed satisfactorily with no mechanical malfunctions discovered. No further details about the cause of the power loss were provided.