Probable cause
A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident engine examination and testing revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The commercial pilot stated that, shortly after takeoff for the personal flight, when the airplane was between about 50 and 70 ft above ground level, a total loss of engine power occurred. After completing the engine failure emergency procedures checklist, the pilot lowered the airplane's nose and attempted to find a suitable landing area. When he determined that the airplane would not be able to reach the desired landing point, he arrested the descent, and the airplane settled into an area of densely populated birch trees along the side of a river.
A postaccident examination of the airplane's systems and engine revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomalies. The engine was test run, and it operated through a full range of power settings with no anomalies noted.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC15LA020 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 13, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bettles, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Bettles (BTT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 170B
- N-number
- N4697C
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1953
- 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.