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Engine Failure During Flight Test Leads to Substantial Damage (N85534)

Yelm, WA, US

On October 27, 2005, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N85534) operated by Edward Graham was involved in an aviation accident near Yelm, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to descend at an excessive rate during the forced landing, which resulted in substantial damage; the cause of the initial engine power loss remains undetermined. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft suffered a complete engine failure during a flight test prior to sale, resulting in a forced landing with substantial damage to the airframe.

What happened

The aircraft was undergoing preparation for sale and had not received an annual inspection since 1973. It was being subjected to a flight test to ensure it was ready for transfer. During this process, the pilot executed three takeoffs in a single day. On the third attempt, shortly after climbing to approximately 200 feet above ground level, the engine experienced a complete loss of power.

Faced with this emergency, the pilot initiated a forced landing procedure. However, the descent rate was excessive during the approach to the ground. The aircraft impacted the surface at this high speed, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.

The investigation

Investigative efforts were unable to determine the specific mechanical or operational reason for the sudden loss of engine power. No definitive cause for the failure could be established from the available evidence.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to descend at an excessive rate during the forced landing, which resulted in substantial damage; the cause of the initial engine power loss remains undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Oct 2005 Aeronca 7AC accident near Yelm, WA?

An aircraft suffered a complete engine failure during a flight test prior to sale, resulting in a forced landing with substantial damage to the airframe.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Oct 2005 involved an Aeronca 7AC, registration N85534, operated by Edward Graham, at Yelm, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to descend at an excessive rate during the forced landing, which resulted in substantial damage; the cause of the initial engine power loss remains undetermined.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20051109X01821. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.