No fatalities

6 Mar 2009: CHAMPION 7FC — Thomas, OK

Thomas, OK, United States

On 6 Mar 2009, a CHAMPION 7FC was involved in an aviation accident near Thomas, OK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 11 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot experienced an engine power loss at 75 feet during initial climb from a farm airstrip, leading to a forced landing in a wheat field. The aircraft overturned, causing substantial damage to the empennage, wings, and tail. Neither occupant was injured.

Accident Overview

A private pilot lost engine power during the initial climb after departing from a farm airstrip. The aircraft had reached approximately 75 feet above the ground when the engine ceased producing power. The pilot executed a partial power landing in a newly planted wheat field. Upon touchdown, the airplane flipped onto its back, resulting in substantial damage to the empennage, both wings, rudder, and vertical fin.

Occupants and Injuries

Both occupants of the aircraft reported that they were not injured during the accident sequence.

Investigation

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector responded to the scene. The inspector reported that there was adequate fuel on board the aircraft and found no obvious reason for the loss of engine power.

Aircraft Damage

The aircraft suffered substantial damage, including destruction of the empennage, both wings, rudder, and vertical fin. The extent of damage rendered the airplane significantly compromised.