Probable cause
A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination of the engine revealed no evidence of any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The private pilot stated that, after departing for the local, personal flight and as the airplane reached about 1,000 ft above ground level, the engine lost all power. He attempted to return to the airport, but the airplane was unable to maintain altitude, so he chose to make an off-airport landing in a pasture, during which the firewall sustained substantial damage.
Postaccident examination of the engine revealed no evidence of any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR17LA191 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 27, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fortuna, California
- Nearest airport
- Rohnerville (FOT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
North American NAVION A
- N-number
- N8695H
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1947
- 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.