On June 17, 2003, a Bellanca 8GCBC (registration N2558Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Williams, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the loss of engine power on takeoff for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane on a pipeline patrol flight experienced a partial loss of engine power during takeoff initial climb, forcing a crash-landing in a swampy rice field. The aircraft was destroyed.
Incident Overview
An airplane on a pipeline patrol flight executed a forced landing in a rice field after suffering a partial loss of engine power during the initial climb of takeoff. The pilot was departing from a private gliderport. As the aircraft climbed to approximately 200 feet above ground level, the engine began to run very roughly. The pilot attempted to return to the airport runway but determined that there was insufficient altitude to safely reach it. The airplane subsequently crash-landed in a swampy rice field located north of the departure end of the runway.
Damage and Post-Recovery Examination
During the accident sequence, the landing gear and both wings were torn from the airframe. Following recovery of the aircraft, investigators started the engine and conducted a test run while it was still attached to the airframe. No malfunctions or failures were found with the engine or any related airframe system.
What happened in the 17 Jun 2003 Bellanca 8GCBC accident near Williams, CA?
An airplane on a pipeline patrol flight experienced a partial loss of engine power during takeoff initial climb, forcing a crash-landing in a swampy rice field. The aircraft was destroyed.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Jun 2003 involved a Bellanca 8GCBC, registration N2558Z, at Williams, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the loss of engine power on takeoff for undetermined reasons.
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