Incident Overview
A glider-towing airplane experienced a complete loss of engine power shortly after takeoff, when it had reached an altitude of approximately 150 feet above ground level. The glider pilot promptly released the towline and subsequently executed an uneventful landing in a nearby field.
Aircraft and Landing
The airplane, now without power, entered a right turn. It then touched down hard and came to rest in a field located to the right of the runway. No further movement or damage details beyond the hard landing are specified in the source.
Fuel and Engine Examination
Following the incident, investigators examined the airplane's fuel system. The fuel onboard was determined to be of sufficient quantity and was found free of debris and contamination. The engine was run on the airframe using the airplane's own fuel system; during these ground tests, it operated smoothly across various power settings.
Mechanical Inspection
A thorough examination of both the airplane and its engine revealed no mechanical malfunctions. No defects or anomalies were identified that could explain the loss of engine power.
Conclusion of Investigation
The source does not assign a probable cause for the power loss. The investigation concluded that there were no mechanical issues with the engine or airframe, and the fuel was clean and abundant.