Primary finding
Probable cause
loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). Trees in the emergency landing area were a related factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that the engine lost power during cruise flight. He then attempted a forced landing. During the forced landing, the right wing collided with a tree, and the airplane was damaged. No reason was found for the loss of engine power.
Source record
Factual narrative
On May 26, 1996, at 1310 central daylight time, a Smith Kitfox #1, N7030G, was substantially damaged during a forced landing at Bridgeport, Alabama. The commercial pilot was seriously injured and his passenger received minor injuries. The aircraft was being operated under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91 by the pilot. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time of the accident, and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight. The pilot reported that the engine lost power during cruise flight. The pilot attempted a forced landing. During the forced landing attempt the right wing collided with a tree, resulting in a loss of directional control and the airplane subsequently impacting terrain. -