Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to a binding drive belt while in the airport traffic pattern.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that she was on a postproduction check flight of a recently completed experimental homebuilt airplane. She said that while on the downwind leg in the traffic pattern, the engine sputtered, the cylinder head and exhaust gas temperatures began to rise, and the engine lost power. During the subsequent emergency descent, the airplane struck a power pole and power lines, and then flipped and impacted the ground tail first. Postaccident examination of the engine revealed that one of the two drive belts for the gear reduction drive had fallen off of the pulley and showed evidence of binding.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC12LA068 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 7, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- North Pole, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Lakloey Air Park (AK22)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built PRECEPTOR STOL KING
- N-number
- N919WP
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.