Nord STAMPE SV4C N51SV accident near Rhinebeck, New York

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB analysis

The pilot was participating in an air show display known as a "bombing routine." Preflight and ground operations were normal, and the airplane departed with about 12 gallons of fuel on board. During one of the bombing passes, the engine made a "pop" sound and lost power. The pilot attempted to recover power with throttle movements without success. He checked the fuel valve and magnetos, but was unable to restart the engine. During a forced landing, the airplane clipped trees and came to rest, inverted, at the edge of a stand of trees near the runway. A postaccident examination of the engine revealed no evidence of an engine malfunction or failure. It was noted that, at the time of the accident, the airplane was being operated in conditions conducive to carburetor icing at glide and cruise power. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11LA434 for the full record.