Accident Overview
On June 20, 2020, at about 1853 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 150J airplane, registration N51033, was destroyed in an accident near Millersport, Ohio. The pilot sustained a minor injury. The flight was conducted as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pilot and Witness Accounts
The pilot told law enforcement that he had taken off from his private airstrip and intended to perform a touch-and-go landing there. During his turn toward the runway, the engine “gave out.” A witness observed the airplane flying north before it banked west and struck power lines. Another witness reported seeing the airplane flying low, then turning and impacting the power lines. The airplane subsequently struck terrain and nosed over. A postimpact fire consumed most of the airplane.
The pilot did not submit an accident report or a written statement to investigators.
Flight Track Data
Review of automatic dependent surveillance–broadcast (ADS-B) data showed the airplane first detected at 1721 as it departed from Fairfield County Airport (LHQ), Lancaster, Ohio. The track proceeded north to the pilot’s airstrip, where it appeared the pilot flew a low approach or touch-and-go. The track then went south back to LHQ, where another low approach or touch-and-go was performed, before heading north again. ADS-B data depicted a complete circuit north to the private airstrip, south to LHQ, and then north. The last ADS-B data was recorded at 1853 near the accident site.
Engine and Fuel System Examination
Due to extensive fire damage, investigators could not determine the amount of fuel on board or examine the fuel system. An engine examination revealed that the No. 2 cylinder had low compression, with air leaking through the intake. The intake and exhaust valve moved as the propeller was rotated. A borescope inspection of the No. 2 cylinder found no defects. The magnetos were melted and could not be tested. No other anomalies were noted with the engine.