Grumman American AA-5B N414DJ accident near Norwood, Massachusetts

Probable cause

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

*This report was modified on May 20, 2008.*

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, after normal preflight and engine run-up, he departed runway 17 and noted that the engine was developing 2250 revolutions per minute. Initial climb out was normal, but after reaching about 200 feet above ground level the engine suddenly sputtered and lost power. He declared an emergency, and with little runway left to land straight ahead, he maneuvered the airplane to look for an alternative landing site. He stated that the airplane was just above stall speed when he landed in soft wetlands adjacent to the runway. Examination of the airplane by an FAA Inspector found the fuel tanks full, with no contamination. The throttle, mixture, carburetor heat controls, and flight controls functioned normally. Engine continuity was established through to the accessory section when the propeller was rotated by hand. Additionally, at the time of takeoff, the air temperature was 31 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point temperature 23 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity was 67 percent. According to the FAA's Icing Probability Curve, at the above temperature, dew point and humidity, the icing curve indicates visible icing at rated power for float type carburetors.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for MIA08LA041 for the full record.