Primary finding
Probable cause
An undetermined loss of engine power and suitable terrain was not available.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that while on final approach for landing, he was low and added power, however, the engine did not respond. The airplane touched down short of the runway and bounced, collapsing the landing gear. The airplane slid on its belly down the runway until it came to a stop. As the occupants were exiting, a fire ignited which consumed the engine and airframe. Due to the extent of the fire damage, it could not be determined if there was a mechanical failure or malfunction.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 9, 1995, approximately 1200 Pacific daylight time, a Republic RC-3, N114N, experienced a loss of engine power while on final approach to Blakely Island Airport, Blakely Island, Washington. The airplane landed short of the runway and collapsed the landing gear. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was destroyed by a post crash fire. The commercial pilot and his passenger were not injured. The flight had departed from Anacortes, Washington, on June 9, 1995, at 1145. The pilot stated that a landing approach was initiated for runway 19. While on final approach, the airplane was low and the pilot added power, however, the pilot stated that the engine did not respond. The airplane landed approximately 20 feet short of the edge of the runway, bounced and touched down again at the edge of the runway. The landing gear collapsed as the airplane slid on its belly for approximately 400 feet down the runway. After the airplane came to rest and the occupants were exiting, a fire ignited and consumed the engine and airframe. Due to the extent of fire damage to the engine, it could not be determined if there were any mechanical failures or malfunctions. -