Incident Overview
During a traffic pattern approach, an aircraft's engine lost power while on the downwind leg. The pilot immediately performed a 180-degree turn and maneuvered to reach the runway. However, the aircraft touched down approximately 15 feet short of the runway threshold.
Impact and Aftermath
The landing gear struck a sandy embankment before the aircraft slid to a stop on the runway surface. Post-accident inspection revealed no debris or water in the fuel system, and an adequate fuel supply was confirmed. A detailed examination of the aircraft failed to identify any evidence of a pre-impact mechanical issue.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the engine power loss occurred, but the exact cause could not be identified. No pre-impact problems were found, and the fuel system appeared clean with sufficient fuel onboard. The reason for the power loss remains undetermined.