Accident Details
On November 14, 2024, at approximately 0704 Pacific standard time, a Cessna 172, registration N46028, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing near Van Nuys, California. The aircraft was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The pilot and the sole passenger on board were not injured.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, the preflight inspection and engine runup were normal. The magneto check, carburetor heat application, and idle power check showed minimal drop in RPM. After requesting a left crosswind departure from runway 16R, the air traffic controller cleared the pilot for takeoff. The pilot reported that the takeoff roll, rotation, and initial climb were uneventful. At about 1,400 ft above ground level (AGL), he completed the cruise checklist.
Shortly thereafter, the engine began to sputter and lost partial power. The pilot contacted the tower controller, declared an emergency, pitched for best glide airspeed, and attempted to return to the airport. He applied carburetor heat, verified the fuel selector was set to the 'both' position, and performed a magneto check. However, these actions did not restore engine power, and the pilot determined that he could not reach the airport. He initiated a forced landing to an open area approximately 2 nautical miles northeast of the departure end of runway 16R.
Damage
During the landing roll on an uneven dirt surface, the airplane struck vegetation and nosed over. The right wing lift strut, vertical stabilizer, and rudder sustained substantial damage. The aircraft has been retained for further examination.