Engine power loss during takeoff at airport

No fatalities • Portland-Intl, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a failure to accelerate after becoming airborne, leading to an impact with obstacles near the runway departure end.

What happened

During the takeoff phase of flight, the pilot reported that the aircraft failed to establish a positive rate of climb after leaving the ground. According to the pilot, the aircraft stopped accelerating despite the power lever being moved to the full forward position. Eyewitnesses observed the aircraft become airborne but noted its inability to gain sufficient altitude.

As the aircraft struggled to climb, it struck a fence and an antenna array located just beyond the end of the runway. Following this initial impact, the plane traveled across a slough and subsequently hit an embankment. The aircraft eventually came to a stop on a nearby golf course, approximately 900 feet from the runway departure end.

Findings

Post-accident inspections of the airframe showed no structural anomalies that existed prior to the mishap. An examination of the engine components, specifically the power turbines and compressor, revealed moderate circular rubbing damage on the blades. This type of damage indicates that the engine was functioning at the time of impact, likely operating within a low to mid-power range. While the physical evidence showed no mechanical defects that would have prevented the engine from generating power, the specific reason for the partial loss of engine power remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The cause of the engine's inability to maintain acceleration during the climb was not identified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-12-24 Cessna 208B Grand Caravan accident near Portland-Intl, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced a failure to accelerate after becoming airborne, leading to an impact with obstacles near the runway departure end.

Were there any fatalities in the 2005-12-24 Cessna 208B Grand Caravan accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-12-24 involved a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, registration N753FE, operated by Federal Express - FedEx, at Portland-Intl, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The cause of the engine's inability to maintain acceleration during the climb was not identified.

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