What happened
The flight was in progress following takeoff when the engine experienced a complete loss of power. This occurred while the aircraft was on a crosswind leg, having climbed to an altitude of approximately 500 feet above ground level. Upon detecting the failure, the pilot initiated a turn toward a nearby field in an attempt to execute an emergency landing.
During the approach to this field, the aircraft collided with trees located near the approach end of the runway area. The impact resulted in significant damage to the airframe and engine components.
The investigation
A post-crash examination of the wreckage was conducted to determine the mechanical cause of the power loss. Investigators focused on the engine's induction system, which is responsible for delivering air to the combustion chambers.
The inspection revealed that the induction air hose had collapsed. This collapse caused the hose to be drawn into the induction system itself. As a result, the flow of induction air to the engine was restricted, leading to the total loss of power.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the mechanical failure of the induction air hose. The restriction of airflow prevented the engine from producing sufficient power to maintain flight or complete the emergency landing maneuver. No other mechanical anomalies were cited as contributing factors in the immediate sequence of events.