What happened
During a visual flight rules local flight departing from Toronto / Buttonville Municipal Airport, Ontario, an aircraft experienced a sudden engine failure shortly after takeoff from Runway 3ASS. While climbing through approximately 400 to 500 feet above ground level, the Lycoming O-320-H2AD engine ceased operation.
Following the loss of power, the pilot attempted to restart the engine while managing a forced approach. During this process, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft, causing it to veer left toward a residential area. The aircraft struck treetops and the rear of a residence, eventually coming to a stop on the house's back deck. The impact resulted in substantial damage to both the aircraft and the building. While the residents of the home were unhurt, the pilot sustained serious, non-life-threatening injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the engine and found that it functioned correctly during post-accident testing, and no mechanical abnormalities were identified. It could not be determined why the engine stopped during the initial climb, though investigators noted that power did not degrade prior to the stoppage, making carburetor icing an unlikely cause.
The investigation also reviewed the pilot's actions during the emergency. The pilot, who was properly licensed and had 220 hours of flight time on this specific type, had moved the fuel selector to the OFF position before the impact. However, the investigation established that the pilot's focus on restarting the engine led to a failure to maintain control of the aircraft.
Findings
- The specific cause of the engine failure during the climb remains undetermined.
- The pilot concentrated on engine restart attempts rather than completing the required emergency checklist.
- Loss of directional control occurred when the pilot removed his hand from the control column while attempting to restart the engine.
- The low altitude at the time of the failure limited the time available to execute appropriate emergency procedures.