Globe GC1B N80932 accident near Wellington, Florida

Probable cause

The partial loss of engine power during the initial climb due to a sticking intake valve on the No. 3 cylinder.

NTSB analysis

During the airplane's initial climb in crosswind conditions for the personal flight, the engine experienced a partial loss of power, and the airline transport pilot reported that the airplane entered an aerodynamic stall. He attempted to lower the nose of the airplane, but with insufficient altitude, the airplane impacted a ditch parallel to the runway, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. Examination of the airplane revealed that the engine's No. 3 cylinder had low compression, and the No. 3 intake valve had hardened carbon deposit buildup on its stem. After the valve was cleaned and reinstalled, the engine compression returned to the normal range. It is likely that, during the initial climb, the intake valve stuck intermittently due to the carbon deposit buildup, which resulted in the partial loss of engine power and the airplane's inability to climb.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA18TA222 for the full record.