On April 9, 1999, a Champion 7ECA (registration N2990G) was involved in an aviation accident near Atchison, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a touch-and-go landing at a private airport, the airplane lost engine power after climbing to 25 feet and impacted trees. Postaccident inspection found no preimpact mechanical anomalies.
Accident Overview
The pilot of the accident airplane reported that he had flown in the local area and was returning to his private airport for two or three touch-and-go landings. On the final approach, he performed a long gliding descent to the runway. The airplane touched down, and power was applied. The airplane rose to approximately 25 feet above ground level, at which point engine power was lost. The airplane then settled and impacted trees.
Postaccident Investigation
A postaccident inspection and a test run of the engine were conducted. The examination disclosed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomalies.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that after losing engine power, the airplane was unable to maintain altitude and descended into nearby trees. The pilot did not report any other unusual occurrences prior to the loss of power.