On January 23, 2007, a Ryan NAVION (registration N4456K) was involved in an aviation accident near Marco Island, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A reported loss of engine power shortly after takeoff for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine roughness after takeoff on Runway 17, leading to a sharp slip and premature touchdown before the landing gear locked. The aircraft struck a VASI light and sustained damage. A postcrash inspection found no anomalies.
Incident Overview
The pilot of the accident aircraft reported that after taking off on Runway 17, establishing a climb, and retracting the landing gear, the engine began running rough. Approximately half of the runway length had been used, and the aircraft was too high to execute a normal flap landing. The pilot therefore performed a sharp slip to the left, then dropped the landing gear. However, the aircraft touched down before the landing gear locked. The airplane slid along the runway, veered to the right, and impacted a Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI) light, incurring damage.
Postcrash Examination
A postcrash examination of the accident airplane was carried out by an FAA-licensed airframe and powerplant mechanic with inspection authorization. The examination revealed no anomalies with the aircraft.
Key Facts
The pilot executed a sharp left slip after experiencing engine roughness.
The landing gear was lowered but did not lock before touchdown.
The aircraft veered right and struck a VASI light, resulting in damage.
A thorough inspection after the accident found no mechanical issues.