De Havilland DH 82A N9410 accident near Rhinebeck, New York

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examinations revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation, which resulted in a forced landing into trees.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated that he performed an engine run-up before takeoff and checked the magnetos twice at different rpm settings and noted no discrepancies. He applied full power during takeoff and noted that the engine was developing full power. At the departure end of the runway and after the pilot had reduced power, the engine began to backfire and lose power. He immediately turned the airplane for a downwind landing on the runway, and the engine quit. After the airplane cleared trees, he slipped the airplane to lose altitude but realized that he was running out of available runway. He then intentionally maneuvered left and collided with trees. The engine was run briefly postaccident, and no discrepancies were noted. A prolonged engine run at full power could not be performed due to damage to the engine mount. No discrepancies were noted with the air induction, ignition, or fuel system. Although the weather conditions were favorable for serious icing at glide power, the pilot reported that the engine developed full power during the takeoff, so it is unlikely that carburetor icing caused the loss of engine power. The reason for the total loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA13LA429 for the full record.