Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Takeoff Climb Leads to Off-Airport Landing in Trees (N8678D)

Kenai, AK, US

On December 20, 1991, a Piper PA-18 (registration N8678D) operated by Grant Fritz was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO FUEL CONTAMINATION. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff climb at about 50 feet AGL, the engine lost partial power then quit. The pilot landed straight ahead, coming to rest in trees 600-800 feet from the runway. Metal slivers found in carburetor; source undetermined.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that after reaching approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL) during the takeoff climb, the engine experienced a partial loss of power for a few seconds before ceasing to operate entirely. The pilot executed a straight-ahead landing, and the aircraft came to rest in trees approximately 600 to 800 feet from the departure end of the airstrip.

Post-Incident Examination

Following the event, numerous metal slivers were removed from the carburetor. Subsequently, the engine operated normally during testing. The origin of the metal slivers was not determined.

Investigation Status

No further details regarding the aircraft, operator, or injuries were provided in the source. The investigation remains limited to the facts described above.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18535. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.