Accident Sequence
The airplane departed from a section of road approximately 3,000 feet long. After reaching an altitude of about 50 feet above ground, the pilot initiated a left turn to the crosswind. During this turn, the pilot reported that the engine lost power and began running rough. A forced landing was executed, with the pilot maneuvering the aircraft toward a sugar cane field. During the landing, the propeller struck a railroad switching unit. The airplane then crossed over an irrigation canal, and the tail wheel struck the bank of the canal. The aircraft subsequently nosed over, and a postcrash fire ensued.
Examination and Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the postcrash fire melted the engine's accessory case. Due to this damage, postcrash testing of the engine was not possible. The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.