Accident Overview
On September 15, 2011, at approximately 1230 Alaska daylight time, a Cessna U206G airplane, registered as N1779R, sustained substantial damage when it collided with terrain following a loss of engine power during takeoff initial climb. The accident occurred about 33 miles northwest of Beluga, Alaska. The airplane was operated by Regal Air of Anchorage, Alaska, as a visual flight rules (VFR) passenger flight under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 135. The airline transport pilot and two passengers were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and company flight following procedures were in effect. The flight was destined for Anchorage.
Pilot Report
In a written statement to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator-in-charge (IIC) dated September 16, the pilot reported that after crossing the departure end of the lake, at about 200 feet above ground level, the airplane's engine sputtered and died. He stated that he concentrated on landing the airplane straight ahead, as slow as possible. The airplane collided with terrain in a boggy area, sustaining substantial damage to the fuselage and right wing.
During a telephone conversation with the IIC on September 17, the pilot said that prior to takeoff, the airplane had been in a left step turn, and that the left fuel tank had been selected for takeoff.
Post-Accident Engine Test
The airplane was recovered to an aviation repair facility near Wasilla, Alaska. On October 7, with the engine still attached to the fuselage, a new propeller installed, and a clean fuel supply provided, the engine was test run. The engine was operated at varying RPM, and a magneto check was completed. No engine anomalies were found.