On May 14, 1997, a Cessna 180J (registration N4992V) was involved in an aviation accident near Lebanon, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff climb at about 400 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted a highway landing but diverted to an embankment due to traffic; the airplane nosed over after touchdown. Post-accident engine test run revealed no mechanical malfunction.
Incident Overview
According to the pilot, during the takeoff climb at approximately 400 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot then headed for a highway to perform an emergency landing. As the airplane approached the highway, the pilot realized there was a significant amount of traffic and decided to land on the embankment off the right side of the highway.
Landing and Nose-Over
The airplane touched down on the embankment and continued for about 100 feet before nosing over onto the highway. The sequence of events resulted in the aircraft coming to rest in an inverted position.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane was conducted, which included a test run of the engine. The examination did not disclose evidence of mechanical malfunction. No other anomalies were reported during the inspection.