Pilot Reported That The Purpose Of The Flight Was To Perform A Local “Break-In” Flight For The Airplane’s Recently Installed Engine

Location: Spartanburg, SC Accident Number: ERA24LA388
Date & Time: September 20, 2024, 15:43 Local Registration: N7037G
Aircraft: Cessna 172K Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Flight test

On September 20, 2024, about 1543 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172K airplane, N7037G, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Spartanburg, South Carolina. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 flight test.

The pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to perform a local “break-in” flight for the airplane’s recently installed engine. There were no engine anomalies noted during the preflight inspection, engine run-up checks, and subsequent takeoff roll. During the airplane’s initial climb at an altitude of about 100 ft, the pilot observed an RPM decline followed by a total loss of engine power. With no remaining runway and unable to return to the airport, the pilot elected to perform a forced landing in a field. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted about 0.3 miles northeast of the runway.

The airplane’s fuselage, wings, and vertical stabilizer sustained substantial damage. The airplane was recovered and retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov