On October 21, 2004, a Stinson 108-2 (registration N425C) was involved in an aviation accident near Indian River, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power during initial climb after takeoff for undetermined reasons. A contributing factor was the unsuitable terrain for a forced landing encountered by the pilot and the airplane's low altitude at the time engine power was lost. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot was seriously injured when his airplane lost engine power on initial climb, leading to a forced landing. The aircraft came to rest inverted on the airport, 560 feet from the runway.
Accident Overview
During takeoff, the pilot reached an altitude of approximately 800 feet above ground level when the engine lost power completely. To avoid an urban area and an interstate highway ahead, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn to return to the airport.
Landing and Damage
After completing the turn, the aircraft was not in a proper position to land on the runway. It landed on the airport and came to rest inverted approximately 560 feet from the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage, and the pilot suffered serious injuries.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the aircraft did not reveal any anomalies associated with a pre-impact failure.