Engine failure and collision with berm during departure from Lani

Casualties unknown • Lanai, HI, US

An aircraft on a trans-Pacific ferry flight experienced an engine failure at 200 feet AGL, leading to a collision with a hidden berm in a grassy area.

What happened

The aircraft was engaged in a trans-Pacific ferry flight from the continental United States to Indonesia. Following a stop in Hilo, Hawaii, the pilot departed on an inter-island cross-country flight toward Honolulu.

During the flight, the pilot observed excessively high cylinder head temperatures and felt a vibration within the airframe. In response, the pilot diverted to Lani and landed the aircraft. While on the ground, the pilot inspected the engine compartment and conducted a ground run-up, which revealed no discrepancies.

Upon departing again to continue the flight to Honolulu, the engine quit completely at approximately 200 feet AGL. The pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft into a grassy area near the departure end of the runway, but the aircraft collided with a berm that was hidden within tall grass. No injuries were reported.

The aircraft was equipped with a 196-gallon ferry fuel tank system installed in the cabin.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-12-13 Cessna 185F accident near Lanai, HI?

An aircraft on a trans-Pacific ferry flight experienced an engine failure at 200 feet AGL, leading to a collision with a hidden berm in a grassy area.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-12-13 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N4742E, operated by Wings OF Hope, Inc., at Lanai, HI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE FAILURE OF THE ENGINE FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THAT OBSTRUCTIONS WERE HIDDEN IN THE GRASS OF THE LANDING AREA CHOSEN BY THE PILOT FOR THE FORCED LANDING.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X16182. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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