Incident Overview
A training flight experienced an engine power loss shortly after takeoff. The instructor pilot reported that during the climb out, the engine failed to produce enough power to sustain lift. He took control of the aircraft, avoided homes and a barn, and executed a forced landing in a nearby field. Due to limited altitude and airspeed, the aircraft landed against the furrows, causing it to flip over.
Pilot Reports
The student pilot, who had approximately 10 hours of total flight time, stated that all instrument readings appeared normal, with engine gauges indicating green. He further noted that the engine stopped running without any warning, alarm, or indication of difficulties.
Post-Incident Engine Run
An engine run was performed after the incident. The engine was successfully started three times. On the third start, the engine was run at 1,900 RPM. When carburetor heat was applied, a drop of 125 RPM was recorded. The engine was not operated at a higher RPM because the propeller blade tips were bent and curled.