Probable cause
A total loss of engine power during the initial climb for reasons that could not be determined.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, this was the first time that the experimental, amateur-built airplane had been flown in 5 years. An aviation mechanic recently flushed the fuel tanks several times to ensure that they were clean and signed-off a condition inspection. After performing several engine run-ups, the pilot taxied to the active runway and took off. As the airplane climbed between 300 and 500 ft above the ground, the engine sustained a “very brief” stutter, then experienced a complete loss of power. The pilot attempted to return to the airport but was unsuccessful. The airplane descended and impacted on rough terrain near the departure end of the runway. Postaccident examination of the engine did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA22LA372 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 13, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Searsmont, Maine
- Nearest airport
- Ridgeview (12ME)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built ' FLYER
- N-number
- N35WT
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2007
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.