Consolidated Aeronautics Inc. LAKE LA-4-200 N963L accident near Mio, Michigan

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to abort the takeoff roll when the engine did not produce full power.

NTSB analysis

The pilot performed a preflight inspection of the airplane and an engine run-up before departing on a personal flight. During the takeoff roll, the tachometer indicated 200 rpm below normal, which was an indication that the engine was not producing full power. The pilot continued the takeoff, and after liftoff, the airplane would not accelerate. The airplane descended and impacted terrain resulting in substantial damage to both wings. The low engine power indication should have prompted the pilot to abort the takeoff, which would have avoided the accident. A postaccident examination of the engine was not performed because the airplane owner did not make the engine available.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA294 for the full record.