Probable cause
A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the airplane's engine quit when the airplane was about 150 feet above ground level after takeoff. He stated that after about 3 seconds the engine restarted and ran for another 6 to 7 seconds before quitting again. The pilot elected not to land on a busy highway and selected a small field to attempt a forced landing. He realized he would not be able to make the field and elected to stall the airplane into trees. Subsequent examination of the engine confirmed engine crankshaft and valve train continuity. Each cylinder produced "thumb" compression and the magnetos produced spark at all leads when the engine was rotated by hand. Fuel was found within the fuel tank and fuel lines leading to the engine. No anomalies were found that would explain the reported loss of engine power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10CA060 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 22, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Nearest airport
- Creve Couer Airport (1H0)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Boeing B75N1
- N-number
- N5521N
- 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.