Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined with the available evidence.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the initial takeoff climb, between 400 and 600 ft above ground level, the engine started to sputter, and the airplane began to lose lift. The pilot declared an emergency and executed a forced landing back to the runway. The airplane landed hard and fast with about 1/3 of the runway remaining. The pilot was unable to stop the airplane before it ran off the runway and down a 50-ft embankment.
A postaccident engine examination revealed no evidence of any preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the partial loss of engine power could not be determined with the available evidence.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA052 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 11, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fallbrook, California
- Nearest airport
- Fallbrook Airpark (L18)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bellanca 7GCBC
- N-number
- N57517
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1973
- 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.