Casualties unknown

Float-Equipped Airplane Loses Engine Power After Takeoff from Small Lake (N717DR)

Chickaloon, AK, US

On August 9, 2005, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N717DR) was involved in an aviation accident near Chickaloon, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for an undetermined reason during initial climb after takeoff, which resulted in a emergency landing/collision with terrain. 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

A commercial pilot flying a floatplane lost engine power during initial climb from a small lake. A forced landing on tundra resulted in structural damage. Inspection found no mechanical anomalies, but fuel from the operator's supply showed contamination.

Accident Overview

A commercial pilot was conducting a local personal flight under 14 CFR Part 91 in a float-equipped airplane. After departure from a small lake, during the initial climb, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing on tundra-covered terrain, resulting in structural damage to the right wing and fuselage.

Post-Accident Inspection

An inspection of the airframe and engine revealed no obvious reason for the loss of engine power. The gascolator was breached during the accident sequence, but approximately one-half ounce of fuel was collected from it. The sample was clear, light blue in color, appeared uncontaminated, and smelled like avgas.

Fuel Analysis

Fuel samples taken from the operator's supply tank were light colored and cloudy, with visible signs of contamination. No further chemical analysis was reported.

Engine Examination

The owner arranged for the engine and carburetor to be disassembled and inspected at a certified aircraft engine repair station. The examination found nothing that would have resulted in a loss of engine power.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no known mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident.

Damage

The accident caused structural damage to the right wing and fuselage. No information regarding injuries or fatalities was provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050829X01326. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.