NYC98LA042

The airplane was departing from runway 6, a 3,001 foot asphalt runway. According to the pilot, during rotation, the airplane's engine lost power. He then retarded the throttle and mixture control, and the airplane returned to the runway. The pilot applied heavy braking and elevator back pressure; however, the airplane continued past the departure end of the runway and went into a ditch. Examination of the airplane, which included an engine run-up, did not reveal any evidence of mechanical malfunction. Winds at the airport were reported to be from 300 degrees at 4 knots.

On December 11, 1997, about 1715 eastern standard time, a Cessna 182P, N20710, was substantially damage during takeoff from the Chatham Municipal Airport, Chatham, Massachusetts. The certificated commercial pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a visual flight rules flight plan had been filed for the flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

In the NTSB Form 6120.1/2, the pilot said he performed a pre-flight check of the airplane and an engine run-up. "During the run-up the engine was running smoothly with good temperature and pressures." He then taxied to runway 06, a 3,001 foot asphalt runway. The pilot further stated:

"...I rolled onto the runway and applied full power, the airplane had good acceleration. I rotated at 100 MPH when I experienced a power loss. I immediately pulled the throttle and mixture out. After landing I applied heavy braking and elevator back pressure, while maintaining longitudinal control. The aircraft went off the end of the runway on to the grass area. I attempted to make a left turn to avoid the perimeter fence and landed in a four feet wide three foot deep ditch...."

In statement on the date of the accident, the pilot said:

"...After a ground roll of a 1000 feet I rotated. As I went airborne I experienced a power loss. At that time I executed a landing. I applied heavy braking at which time the aircraft started sliding sideways. I released the brakes and regained forward control. I pumped the brakes and pulled the elevator full back to slow the aircraft....When I reached the grass area the aircraft started to skid to the left. As I almost came to a complete stop the nose wheel [fell] in a ditch..."

Examination of the wreckage was performed by a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector. A check of the airplane's fuel system was negative for contaminates and a compression check was performed on all engine cylinders. Additionally, an engine run-up was performed. There were no abnormalities of the airframe or engine found during the examination.

A weather observation taken at 1652 reported, Wind from 300 degrees at 4 knots; Visibility 10 miles; Sky Clear, Temperature 34 degrees F; Dew point 34 degrees F; Altimeter 30.08.