Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 150L near Plymouth, MA — 2011-07-04

Final reportERA11LA383
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Date
2011-07-04
Location
Plymouth, MA, USA
Airport
PYM
Aircraft
CESSNA 150L
Registration
N150ET
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power during initial climb due to a stuck cylinder valve, which resulted from excessive corrosion and carbon deposits on the valve springs due to inadequate maintenance.

NTSB narrative

During initial climb, the engine began to run rough and experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot elected to land straight ahead into a cranberry bog. The pilot believed the loss of engine power was due to a stuck cylinder valve. Postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the No. 2 cylinder intake and exhaust valve springs exhibited excessive corrosion and carbon deposits, consistent with lack of use, which made them more susceptible to sticking. The extent of the corrosion was such that it presented over a long period of time and should have been addressed during routine maintenance. No other defects were noted with the engine that would have resulted in a partial loss of power. The airplane had been operated for 17 hours since its most recent annual inspection, which was completed 11 months prior to the accident. The engine had been operated for 256 hours since its most recent overhaul, which was completed more than 10 years prior to the accident. The same airplane was involved in a forced landing to a cranberry bog 8 years earlier due to a stuck cylinder valve.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff upon engine roughness indication.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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