On June 27, 1990, a DE Havilland DHC-2 (registration N5147G) was involved in an aviation accident near Caribou Lake, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The separation of the number nine cylinder, which caused a complete loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power shortly after takeoff from Caribou Lake. He executed a controlled landing into spruce trees, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
What happened
The pilot reported experiencing a complete loss of engine power shortly after departing from Caribou Lake. Following the failure, he managed to execute a controlled landing into a stand of small spruce trees. The impact with the vegetation resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.
The investigation
A subsequent inspection of the aircraft's engine revealed that the number nine cylinder had separated. This mechanical failure was identified as the direct cause of the loss of power during flight.
Probable cause
The separation of the number nine cylinder, which caused a complete loss of engine power.