Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain a proper descent rate during the forced landing. A factor was the engine power loss for undetermined reasons.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Shortly after liftoff, the engine rpm began to drop and as it went below 2,200 the airplane was unable to sustain level flight. The pilot subsequently landed hard in an open field and the main landing gear collapsed. The pilot stated that the rpm decrease continued through the descent and touchdown. The cause of the engine power loss was not determined.
Source record
Factual narrative
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