NTSB Reports

The pilot reported that he and his co-owner had flown the airplane the night before the accident; it flew normally without problems. On the morning of the accident, he had to use the low-pressure boost pump to start the engine, but the pre-takeoff run-up was normal. The airplane ised most of the 4201-foot-long runway before becoming airborne. On reaching about 500 feet agl, the pilot determined the engine was not producing full power. He turned on the low-pressure boost pump and climbed to 1000 feet agl before turning back to the airport. The engine continued losing power, so he conducted a forced landing to a cornfield. A witness reported observing dark exhaust trailing the airplane during the takeoff.

Key Takeaways:

• Several accidents involved a complete or partial loss of engine power, often attributed to fuel issues, contamination, or mechanical problems, leading to forced landings.
• Multiple aircraft experienced a loss of control or in-flight breakups, particularly during aggressive maneuvering or after challenging landing attempts, resulting in several fatal outcomes.
• Pilot-related factors such as distraction during critical flight phases, incorrect radio frequency usage at non-towered airports, or a pilot operating without valid certifications contributed to incidents.
• Takeoff and landing phases proved hazardous in numerous cases, including runway excursions, a runway collision, and incidents where pilots struggled with aircraft control or mechanical issues like a slipping seat.

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