Casualties unknown

Loss of Engine Power During Takeoff Results in Terrain Impact (N33PA)

Deer Valley, AZ, US

On June 15, 2002, a Cessna 182Q (registration N33PA) was involved in an aviation accident near Deer Valley, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loss of engine power for undetermined reasons during the takeoff initial climb, and, the pilot's failure to maintain an adequate airspeed while maneuvering to return to the runway, which resulted in a stall. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff initial climb, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power and collided with terrain after the pilot attempted to return to the runway. A post-accident examination found fuel system and engine installation discrepancies, but none were deemed causal.

Sequence of Events

The airplane was in the initial climb phase of takeoff when the engine lost power. According to the pilot, at an altitude of approximately 200 to 300 feet above ground level, a loud bang emanated from the engine area, accompanied by strong vibrations. In response, the pilot initiated a left turn toward a landing area. The passenger reported that the airplane stalled after completing a 180-degree turn oriented back toward the runway. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground in a 60-degree nose-down attitude.

Post-Accident Examination

A detailed examination of the airframe and engine conducted after the accident revealed several discrepancies involving the fuel system and the engine installation. However, investigators determined that none of these discrepancies, individually or collectively, would have caused the loss of engine power that preceded the accident.

Summary

The accident involved a loss of engine power during the takeoff climb, followed by a turn-back attempt that ended in a stall and impact with terrain. The precise cause of the power loss remains undetermined from the physical evidence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Jun 2002 Cessna 182Q accident near Deer Valley, AZ?

During takeoff initial climb, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power and collided with terrain after the pilot attempted to return to the runway. A post-accident examination found fuel system and engine installation discrepancies, but none were deemed causal.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Jun 2002 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration N33PA, at Deer Valley, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

a loss of engine power for undetermined reasons during the takeoff initial climb, and, the pilot's failure to maintain an adequate airspeed while maneuvering to return to the runway, which resulted in a stall.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020620X00949. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.