Probable cause
A loss of engine power during takeoff initial climb for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination of the engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The commercial pilot reported that, shortly after taking off for the personal flight, he heard a "pop" sound emanate from the engine, followed by a loss of engine power and subsequent loss of lift. The pilot maintained level forward flight until the airplane impacted an orchard. A postimpact fire ensued, and the airplane was partially consumed. The remainder of the airplane and the engine sustained thermal damage. An examination of the airframe and engine revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12LA406 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 8, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Durham, California
- Nearest airport
- Lake (PVT)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aviat Aircraft Inc A-1B
- N-number
- N395AA
- 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.