Forced landing and inversion of aircraft following engine power loss

Casualties unknown • Indian River, MI, US

An aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power during the initial climb after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing and an inverted position on the airport grounds.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following takeoff, the aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power. The pilot reported reaching an altitude of approximately 800 feet above ground level before the engine failure occurred.

To avoid an urban area and an interstate highway located ahead of the flight path, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn to return to the airport. Following this maneuver, the aircraft was not in a suitable position to land on the active runway. The pilot performed a forced landing on the airport grounds, where the aircraft came to rest inverted approximately 560 feet from the runway.

The accident resulted in serious injuries to the pilot and substantial damage to the aircraft.

Probable cause

The engine lost power completely during the initial climb after takeoff, leading to a forced landing attempt that resulted in the aircraft flipping over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-10-21 Stinson 108-2 accident near Indian River, MI?

An aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power during the initial climb after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing and an inverted position on the airport grounds.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-10-21 involved a Stinson 108-2, registration N425C, at Indian River, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine lost power completely during the initial climb after takeoff, leading to a forced landing attempt that resulted in the aircraft flipping over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041027X01707. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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