On October 15, 2005, a Boeing B75N1 (registration N5158N) operated by Roger J. Knutzen was involved in an aviation accident near Burlington, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a utility pole during a precautionary landing. The utility pole was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After experiencing reduced engine power during initial climb following a touch-and-go landing, the pilot attempted an off-airport landing but struck a utility pole.
What happened
The pilot reported that he noted a reduction in engine power during the initial climb just after completing a touch-and-go landing at a private airstrip. He stated that the airplane's takeoff and climb performance was diminished to a point where he elected to initiate an off airport landing to a nearby field. During the approach to the field, the airplane collided with a utility pole resulting in an uncontrolled descent and collision with terrain.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical condition of the aircraft following the incident. No further mechanical examination details were provided in the source text.
Findings
Reduced engine power was observed during the initial climb phase.
The pilot elected to land off-airport due to diminished performance.
Collision with a utility pole occurred during the approach.