Incident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, a non-instrument rated private pilot reported over the radio that the engine was losing power. She stated she was turning back to the departure airport, was unable to maintain altitude, and was descending into fog.
Radio Communications and Assistance
The pilot's husband, who heard her radio transmissions, advised her to lower the landing gear and flaps in an attempt to slow the airplane down. He then departed in his own airplane to assist her. The husband reported seeing a plume of black smoke about 5 miles southeast of the airport. He flew over the site but could not see the ground due to fog, which he described as about 500 feet thick.
Pilot and Weather Information
The pilot had accumulated 150 flight hours. She did not receive a weather briefing before departing. The weather reported at the destination airport, approximately 23 nautical miles away, included 1/4-mile visibility, fog, and an overcast ceiling at 100 feet.
Examination Results
Examination of the airplane and engine revealed no mechanical deficiencies.