Accident Overview
On August 31, 2025, at about 1100 Pacific daylight time, an American Champion 8KCAB Super Decathlon 177, registration N3357T, sustained substantial damage during an accident near Jamesburg, California. The pilot and a pilot-rated passenger suffered minor injuries. The aircraft was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Flight and Maneuvering
The pilot reported that the flight was scenic, with maneuvering over a canyon area at an altitude between 1,500 and 2,000 feet above ground level (agl). Weather conditions were clear with no turbulence. The pilot-rated passenger was on the controls and leveled off at approximately 2,000 ft agl, then commented that the airplane “wanted to keep descending.”
Engine Response and Precautionary Landing
Following the passenger's observation, the pilot directed her to advance the throttle to full power, but the airplane continued its descent. The passenger maintained the airplane’s heading while the pilot manipulated the throttle, but there was no response from the engine. The airplane continued to descend and lose airspeed. The pilot then initiated a precautionary landing onto rough terrain. During the landing, the airplane struck a tree and came to rest on sloped terrain.
Damage and Recovery
Both wings and the fuselage sustained substantial damage. The airplane was recovered to a secure facility for further examination.