Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172S near Everett, WA — 2021-03-23

Final reportWPR21LA140
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Date
2021-03-23
Location
Everett, WA, USA
Airport
PAE
Aircraft
CESSNA 172S
Registration
N2164Z
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power during climb, for reasons that could not be determined based on available evidence.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of about 100 ft above ground level, the engine began to sputter. The pilot initiated a left turn, to land on the smaller parallel runway to the east. During the turn, the engine lost all power, and the pilot was unable to maintain altitude. The airplane collided with trees and came to rest about 500 ft east of the runway. A postaccident examination of the airframe, engine, and fuel system revealed no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the loss of power was not determined.

Analysis

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

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents10

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