What happened
During the initial portion of a CFR Part 91 flight review, a private certificated pilot and a flight instructor departed in a Cessna aircraft. Approximately 50 feet above ground level, the engine began to lose power, making it impossible for the aircraft to maintain its altitude. The crew selected a road as a forced landing area; however, the aircraft struck several trees before colliding with the ground.
The investigation
An FAA inspector conducted an examination of the engine following the accident. The inspection revealed that the number 1 cylinder had no compression because the exhaust valve was stuck in the open position, which caused a substantial loss of engine power. Furthermore, the investigation determined that the aircraft was approximately 70 pounds over its maximum gross weight, a condition that reduced its climb performance.