Incident Overview
A student pilot was conducting a flight from Graham Airport when, during the initial climb, the engine allegedly lost power. The pilot initiated a forced landing. During the emergency descent, the aircraft struck a power line, which pulled the aircraft into the ground.
Preflight and Fuel System
The student pilot reported observing approximately half tanks of fuel during the preflight inspection. This quantity should have been on board at that time. However, after the accident, it was determined that the fuel had apparently leaked out through a broken fuel line fitting at the carburetor while the aircraft was at rest at the crash site. Notably, those who examined the aircraft later that night did not detect a strong fuel odor.
Engine Examination
A post-accident operational check of the engine was conducted and found to be satisfactory, indicating the engine was capable of normal operation. The reason for its alleged failure during the initial climb was not discovered.
Conclusion
The investigation did not determine why the engine power was lost. The forced landing maneuver was in progress when the aircraft contacted a power line, resulting in the aircraft being pulled to the ground.