On March 29, 1986, a Cessna 177 (registration N29849) was involved in an aviation accident near Portage, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the reported loss of power could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses reported engine smoke and sputtering after a low pass. The aircraft then entered a steep turn, wings vertical, and descended to a frozen lake, sinking below the ice. The cause of power loss was not determined.
Incident Overview
According to witness statements, an aircraft experienced engine issues during climbout following a low pass. Smoke was observed emanating from the engine, and the engine sputtered. Subsequently, the aircraft was seen executing a steep turn.
Final Maneuver
During this turn, the aircraft's wings reached a vertical position. The aircraft descended to the surface of a frozen lake, with the last turn occurring at approximately 250 feet above ground level. Upon contact with the lake, the aircraft sank beneath the ice.
Investigation Findings
Investigators were unable to determine the cause of the reported loss of engine power. No other contributing factors were identified in the official source.
Probable cause
The cause of the reported loss of power could not be determined.