Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Initial Climb Leads to Forced Landing and Collision with Wires and Parked Cars (N8578M)

Gainesville, GA, US

On December 3, 2002, a Beech 35-B33 (registration N8578M) was involved in an aviation accident near Gainesville, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loss of engine power for undetermined reason resulting in damage to the airplane during the subsequent forced landing. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During initial climb, the pilot reported a loud noise and engine power loss, leading to a forced landing on a street where the aircraft struck wires and several parked cars. Post-accident engine test run revealed no discrepancies.

Accident Narrative

The pilot reported that during the initial climb after takeoff, the engine began producing a "loud noise" and subsequently lost power. Unable to maintain altitude while attempting to return to the departure airport, the pilot elected to execute a forced landing on a street. As the airplane descended toward the street, it struck overhead wires, then touched down on the roadway and collided with multiple parked cars.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, the engine was subjected to a test run. No mechanical discrepancies or anomalies were identified during this run. The source did not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, time of day, weather conditions, or any injuries or fatalities.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021205X05571. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.