On July 20, 2007, a Cessna A185F (registration N78011) was involved in an aviation accident near Englewood, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THIS CASE WAS REVISED 10/31/2007. Low compression in number 2 cylinder, which reduced the airplane's climb capability. Contributing factors in this accident were the high density altitude conditions, and the tree. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot rotated 10 knots above recommended speed, experienced degraded climb performance, and performed a precautionary landing on an embankment. During the landing roll, the left wing struck a pine tree, damaging the main spar.
Incident Summary
A pilot reported that during takeoff, he used a normal technique but rotated at a speed 10 knots higher than the recommended Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) speed. After rotation, he attempted to remain in ground effect but noted that climb performance began to degrade after a few moments. He decided not to continue southward and instead turned to parallel an interstate highway. During the turn, he had to maneuver the airplane to avoid hitting an overhead sign. This maneuver reduced energy and airspeed, prompting him to make a precautionary landing to avoid a possible stall. He landed on an embankment adjacent to the E-470 toll road. During the landing roll, the left wing struck a pine tree near the lift strut, resulting in damage to the main spar.
Aircraft and Environmental Conditions
Documents submitted by the pilot indicated that the airplane was at or near maximum gross weight and within center of gravity limits. The density altitude at the time was estimated to be between 8,800 and 9,200 feet mean sea level. The pilot later examined the engine and reported that the compression on the No. 2 cylinder was 40/80. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or other conditions were provided in the source.