Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power during takeoff due to failure of the left magneto. Contributing to the accident was unsuitable terrain to conduct a forced landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot departed the turf runway and, shortly after takeoff, the airplane experienced a partial loss of engine power. Unable to out-climb the rising terrain, the pilot intentionally allowed the airplane to stall into the treetops of a heavily wooded area. Examination of the airplane revealed that the left magneto would not produce spark when rotated and subsequent disassembly of the magneto revealed that the cam follower was broken. The magneto had been operated for about 300 hours since it was installed during October 2001. The prior service history of the magneto could not be determined, except that it was in storage for about 9 years prior to its installation on the accident airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for NYC08LA196 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 25, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Romney, West Virginia
- Nearest airport
- Private (NONE)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Boeing A75N1
- N-number
- N46996
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.