Accident Overview
The pilot reported that the engine lost power during takeoff, past midfield, prompting an aborted takeoff. The aircraft was unable to stop within the remaining runway and collided with a dirt embankment beyond the runway end.
Passenger Account
The owner of the aircraft, a student pilot who was a passenger on the flight, stated that the pilot told him he did not think the engine was developing enough power. According to the owner, the abort was initiated just beyond midfield. He also reported that he did not hear any unusual noises from the engine or a reduction in RPM before the abort.
Investigation Findings
An FAA inspector examined the wreckage at the accident site. The engine was subsequently test run by the manufacturer and operated successfully. Neither the FAA’s examination nor the engine test run provided any evidence of an engine failure or malfunction.