On July 2, 1990, a Boeing A75N1 (registration N66302) was involved in an aviation accident near San Antonio, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE SPEED. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE MOMENTARY POWER LOSS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost power momentarily during a climbing turn, stalled, and hit a tree. A partial engine teardown found no mechanical issues; the pilot later acknowledged the loss may have been pilot induced.
Maneuver and Power Loss
The pilot conducted a low pass over the runway. Following the pass, he performed a right pull-up and reversed the aircraft's direction to return for a landing. In the course of a climbing turn, the pilot reported that the engine lost power momentarily. This loss of power led to an aerodynamic stall of the airplane.
Collision and Damage
The stalled aircraft collided with a tree and subsequently struck the ground.
Engine Inspection
After the incident, investigators conducted a partial teardown of the engine. The examination did not reveal any mechanical deficiencies or malfunctions.
Pilot Statement
In a later statement, the pilot acknowledged that the temporary loss of power could have been caused by his own actions during the maneuver.