What happened
On September 20, 2024, at approximately 1543 EDT, a Cessna 172K, registration N7037G, was conducting a flight test under 14 CFR Part 91 near Spartanburg, South Carolina. The flight was intended to perform a local "break-in" procedure for a recently installed engine.
During the preflight inspection, engine run-up, and the takeoff roll, the pilot reported no engine anomalies. However, while climbing at an altitude of approximately 100 feet, the pilot observed a decline in RPM which was followed by a total loss of engine power. Unable to return to the airport and with no remaining runway available, the pilot performed a forced landing in a field.
During the landing roll, the aircraft nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position approximately 0.3 miles northeast of the runway. The pilot sustained one minor injury, and there were no fatalities.
Damage
The aircraft sustained substantial damage to its wings, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer.