Incident Overview
On January 20, 2008, at 1630 eastern standard time, a Cessna U206F, registration N8JZ, experienced a loss of engine power while on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern at Kissimmee Gateway Airport (ISM) in Orlando, Florida. The pilot executed a forced landing in a heavily wooded area. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The airline transport pilot and two passengers were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight, which was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. The flight had originated from ISM at 1620.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that he departed ISM with the intention of performing several circuits in the pattern. The first circuit was uneventful and concluded with a full stop landing. During the second takeoff, as the airplane transitioned from crosswind to downwind, the engine failed. The pilot stated that he "switched the fuel selector to the other fuel tank, checked full mixture, full props and full throttle. He then checked left magneto, right magneto, both and start, aux fuel pump and emergency fuel pump." Engine power was not restored. The pilot then broadcast a "Mayday, Mayday" call before making the forced landing in a wooded area.
Examination Findings
An airframe and powerplant mechanic, under the supervision of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, examined the airplane. During the examination, the engine was started and run up to 2,700 rpm for 15 minutes. A magneto check was conducted, and no anomalies were noted. The fuel selector was switched to each tank, and no anomalies were noted. No other mechanical issues were identified.
Conclusion
The investigation did not determine a specific cause for the engine power loss. The pilot and passengers were uninjured, and the aircraft was substantially damaged.