September 4, 2009, Oroville, Calif., Piper PA-28-180

At about 1100 Pacific time, the airplane was destroyed during a forced landing following a loss of engine power during initial climb. The private pilot and his passenger sustained minor injuries. Visual conditions prevailed. At about 100 to 200 feet above ground, the engine lost power. The pilot initiated a left 180-degree turn towards the runway and executed a forced landing.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • An airplane was destroyed during a forced landing after losing engine power shortly after takeoff.
  • The airplane struck a dirt berm during the landing attempt, causing it to nose into the ground and subsequently catch fire.
  • Despite the extensive damage to the aircraft, the private pilot and passenger sustained only minor injuries.
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At about 1100 Pacific time, the airplane was destroyed during a forced landing following a loss of engine power during initial climb. The private pilot and his passenger sustained minor injuries. Visual conditions prevailed.

At about 100 to 200 feet above ground, the engine lost power. The pilot initiated a left 180-degree turn towards the runway and executed a forced landing. As the airplane approached the runway at a 45-degree angle, the airplanes main landing gear struck a dirt berm and nosed into the ground. The pilot and passenger exited the airplane and observed a post-accident fire originating from the front part of the airplane.

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