Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on available evidence.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the takeoff climb, he retracted the flaps, and the engine began to run rough. The pilot elected to abort the landing on the remaining runway. The airplane descended rapidly with the decreased airspeed and subsequently landed hard, sustaining substantial damage.
The passengers reported that the airplane bounced three to four times when it landed. Ground witnesses reported heavy snowfall at the time the airplane took off.
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 based on the available evidence.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA164 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 3, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fairbanks, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Fairbanks Intl (AFA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Instrument (IMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 208B
- N-number
- N215MC
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1999
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
- Purpose of flight
- Business
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.