Amateur-built NIEUPORT 11# N917AB accident near Bellingham, Washington

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination revealed no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB analysis

The commercial pilot reported that the accident flight was the first flight following replacement of the experimental engine. During takeoff/initial climb, the engine began to lose power, so he attempted to land on the runway opposite the departure runway, likely due to a large body of water straight ahead. During the 180° turn, the pilot realized that the airplane would not reach the runway, so he decided to land on one of the airport's closed runways. The airplane landed short of that runway and nosed over.

A postaccident examination of the engine revealed no evidence of any preexisting mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the partial loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR15LA235 for the full record.