Amateur-built CHALLENGER II N710WB accident near Neshkoro, Wisconsin

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined, as postaccident examination revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Contributing to the accident was the non-certificated pilot's decision to maneuver at low altitude.

NTSB analysis

The non-certificated pilot reported that he conducted a low approach over the turf runway at 50 ft above ground level with the engine power at idle. About halfway down the runway, he applied full power, but the engine did not respond. He entered a shallow left turn and slowed the airplane to stall speed before impacting trees. While the condition of the propeller was consistent with the engine having no power at the time of impact, postaccident examination of the airframe and a test run of the engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation, and a reason for the loss of power could not be determined.

The pilot was not certificated, and he did not hold a medical certificate. The pilot's flight time was unknown. The pilot's decision to maneuver the airplane at a low altitude and low airspeed precluded him from selecting a suitable forced landing site following the loss of engine power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN16LA123 for the full record.