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Casualties unknown

Airplane Impacts Terrain After Loss of Engine Power During Initial Climb (N4422R)

Rio Creek, WI, US

On June 24, 2007, a Cessna 172M (registration N4422R) was involved in an aviation accident near Rio Creek, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper aircraft weight and balance, and his failure to maintain sufficient airspeed to avoid a stall during takeoff-initial climb. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane lost control during initial climb after the pilot reported a total loss of engine power. Witness accounts differed on whether the engine stopped or the airplane stalled. The aircraft was 243 pounds over its maximum gross weight.

Accident

The airplane impacted terrain following a loss of control during initial climb. According to the pilot, the engine experienced a total loss of engine power at that time.

Witness Statements

One witness reported that the airplane stalled while climbing over trees. Another witness stated that he did not hear the engine stop.

Weight and Balance

The airplane was approximately 243 pounds over its gross takeoff weight. The pilot indicated that he believed he had calculated a weight and balance for the flight that was within limits.

Examination

Post-accident examination revealed that both propeller blade tips were missing, with fracture surfaces consistent with rotational overload separation. A propeller slash mark was present on the ground preceding the wreckage. This evidence, combined with the blade tip separation, indicates significant propeller rotation and engine power at the time of impact. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Jun 2007 Cessna 172M accident near Rio Creek, WI?

An airplane lost control during initial climb after the pilot reported a total loss of engine power. Witness accounts differed on whether the engine stopped or the airplane stalled. The aircraft was 243 pounds over its maximum gross weight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Jun 2007 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N4422R, at Rio Creek, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper aircraft weight and balance, and his failure to maintain sufficient airspeed to avoid a stall during takeoff-initial climb.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070625X00789. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.