MIA95LA193

Shortly after takeoff while orbiting a house, the pilot applied power to return to the departure airport but the engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot applied carburetor heat but the engine failed to respond. While descending the airplane collided with, and remained suspended in a tree. The airplane was recovered and examination of the fuel tanks revealed each contained 2.5 gallons of fuel. The fuel system was checked for contaminants; none were found. The engine was started and operated to no higher than 1,500 RPM due to structural damage to the fuselage. The magnetos were operationally tested with no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. No determination could be made as to the reason for the loss of engine power.

On August 5, 1995, about 1300 central daylight time, a Cessna 150L, N18679, collided with and remained suspended in a tree following loss of engine power while maneuvering near the Picayune Pearl River Airport, Picayune, Mississippi. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private-rated pilot and one passenger were not injured. The flight originated about 1245 from the Picayune Pearl River Airport, Picayune, Mississippi.

The pilot stated that during the preflight of the airplane he determined that the fuel tanks contained about 8 gallons of fuel. The flight departed then orbited the passengers home several times while descending from 1,000 to 700 feet mean sea level. After applying power the engine responded momentarily then quit. He applied carburetor heat for 1-2 seconds but the engine failed to respond. During the descent the airplane collided with a tree.

Examination of the airplane by a FAA certificated mechanic revealed each fuel tank contained about 2.5 gallons of fuel. The fuel system was checked for contaminants; none were found. The airplane was recovered and the engine was started and operated to no higher than 1,500 rpm due to structural damage to the fuselage. Each magneto was operationally checked with no evidence of failure or malfunction. No determination could be made as to the reason for the reported loss of engine power.