Accident Overview
While flying the base leg of the airport traffic pattern, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot immediately initiated an emergency landing procedure, aiming for a field that appeared suitable for a forced landing. However, the airplane's glide performance did not allow it to reach the intended field, and it struck a tree just before touchdown.
Flight Details
The aircraft was on a routine flight within the airport traffic pattern. The specific phase of flight during the power loss was on base leg. The pilot's response was to attempt an emergency landing to an open field. The precise location of the field relative to the airplane's position at the time of power loss is not specified in the source.
Damage and Examination
The collision with the tree resulted in structural damage to the airplane. Both wing spars and wing structure were damaged. Additionally, the propeller blades were bent aft, indicating that the engine was likely producing some power at impact or that the blades struck the tree. Post-accident examinations of both the airframe and the engine were conducted. No anomalies were found in either the airframe or the engine components during these examinations.
Engine Post-Accident Check
Following the accident, the engine was restarted. During this post-accident run, no anomalies were noted. The engine operated normally, which further indicates that the power loss may have been due to an external factor or a transient condition that was not present after the accident. The exact cause of the power loss remains undetermined based on the available information.