Engine Failure After Takeoff Leads to Collision with Power Lines (N6737W)

Incident Overview

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot completed two turns and reached an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level when the engine began to sputter and lost power. Unable to turn back and land on the runway, the pilot continued straight ahead to avoid houses and trees. During the subsequent emergency landing, the aircraft collided with a power line and crashed into a field.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the aircraft revealed water in the fuel system. A caretaker at the airport reported that the aircraft had not been flown since November 1983. The caretaker also stated that the pilot had drained water from the fuel tanks on the day prior to the flight, and had been advised not to fly the aircraft until the engine had been run for about 30 minutes and was operating correctly.