Accident Details
A commercial pilot with 1,526 hours of flight experience was returning the airplane following the completion of an extensive annual inspection. The pilot reported topping off both main fuel tanks and performing a complete run-up, during which no anomalies with the engine or flight controls were identified. During the initial climb-out, while climbing through an altitude of 500 to 600 feet above ground level (agl), the engine lost power.
Pilot Actions
Upon the loss of engine power, the pilot immediately checked the mixture and used the primer, which momentarily restored engine power. However, the engine lost power again, and a subsequent restart attempt was unsuccessful. While descending, the pilot chose to turn the airplane left toward an open field located northeast of the departure runway.
Forced Landing and Damage
During the forced landing, the airplane struck the tops of several trees and came to rest on the ground facing the approach heading. There was no fire, and the pilot was able to egress the airplane unassisted. An examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector at the accident site revealed that both wings had separated from the fuselage, the propeller was detached, and the landing gear was broken off.
Investigation and Weather
The reason for the reported loss of engine power could not be determined. At the time of the accident, the weather was reported as wind from 200 degrees at 9 knots, gusting to 14 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, clear skies, temperature 81 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point 61 degrees Fahrenheit, and an altimeter setting of 29.83 inches of Mercury.