On August 9, 1992, a Piper PA-22 (registration N9557D) operated by John T. Smeaton Sr. was involved in an aviation accident near Cinnibar, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after takeoff, an airplane experienced a gradual loss of engine power at about 10 feet above ground and crashed into bushes off the end of a remote strip. The cause of the power loss was not determined.
Incident Overview
The pilot reported that immediately after takeoff, while the airplane was approximately 10 feet above the ground, the engine gradually lost partial power. The airplane subsequently crashed into bushes located just beyond the end of the remote airstrip.
Investigation Challenges
According to the investigation, details surrounding the accident were very minimal and sketchy. Investigators made several unsuccessful attempts to obtain further information from both the pilot and the passenger. The wreckage was not recovered.
Cause Determination
The cause of the power loss could not be determined due to the lack of available information and the unrecovered wreckage.
What happened in the 9 Aug 1992 Piper PA-22 accident near Cinnibar, AK?
Shortly after takeoff, an airplane experienced a gradual loss of engine power at about 10 feet above ground and crashed into bushes off the end of a remote strip. The cause of the power loss was not determined.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Aug 1992 involved a Piper PA-22, registration N9557D, operated by John T. Smeaton Sr., at Cinnibar, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN.
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