MIA97LA130

The pilot stated that the engine began losing power about 150 feet agl during climbout. He made a left crosswind turn to enter closed traffic and land; however, the airspeed started to decrease and the airplane could not maintain altitude. According to the pilot, there was only a partial loss of power. The pilot made a forced landing straight ahead, and the airplane collided with trees and terrain. Postaccident examination of the engine assembly and accessories revealed no evidence of a precrash failure or malfunction. Induction and fuel system components sustained impact damage or were consumed by fire. The fuel selector valve was found in the OFF position. The pilot stated that he could not specifically recall shutting off the fuel selector valve after impact. However, he stated that he had initiated an aircraft securing procedure before he was forced to evacuate because of leaking fuel and the ensuing fire.

On April 10, 1997, about 1820 eastern daylight time a Boeing B75N1, N65467, registered to Avenger Technology Inc., operating as a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, crashed after takeoff from River Ranch Airstrip, Lake Wales, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was destroyed. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries, and the passenger reported no injuries. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot stated he was about 150 feet on climbout over the runway when the engine quit developing full power. He made a left crosswind turn in an attempt to enter closed traffic and land. The airspeed started to decrease and the airplane would not maintain altitude. There were no forced landing areas available. He stopped the turn, made a forced landing straight ahead and collided with trees and terrain. The airplane was consumed by postcrash fire.

Examination of the engine assembly and accessories revealed no evidence of a precrash mechanical failure or malfunction. The fuel selector valve was found in the off position.