On August 21, 2001, a Cessna 175 (registration N6550E) was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The total loss of engine power during takeoff for an undetermined reason. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot reported total engine power loss at 200 feet after takeoff. Emergency procedures failed to restore power, leading to a collision with trees during an off-airport landing. Post-accident testing of carburetor and magnetos found no anomalies.
Incident Overview
A certificated commercial pilot experienced a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff, at approximately 200 feet above ground level (AGL). The pilot reported that all engine power was lost and that emergency procedures did not restore engine power. The airplane subsequently collided with trees during an off-airport landing.
Damage and Investigation
The aircraft sustained extensive damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. It came to rest inverted within a stand of tall trees. The engine was torn from the fuselage during the accident sequence.
An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the airplane. The inspector removed the carburetor and magnetos from the accident airplane's engine for the purpose of conducting additional testing and examination.
Component Testing
Both the carburetor assembly and the two magnetos were functionally tested. The tests revealed that both components operated normally.