The Engine “Coughed Loudly” And Experienced A Total Loss Of Power

Location: Fredericksburg, TX Accident Number: CEN22LA187
Date & Time: April 30, 2022, 13:00 Local Registration: N29947
Aircraft: North American AT-6D Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On April 30, 2022, about 1300 central daylight time, a North American AT-6D airplane, N29947, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at Gillespie County Airport (T82), Fredericksburg, Texas. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot stated that before the flight, he completed a preflight inspection and engine run-up with no anomalies noted. During the initial climb, immediately after the landing gear was retracted, the pilot noticed white smoke from the engine cowling. A few seconds later the engine “coughed loudly” and experienced a total loss of power. Since they were still over the runway, he extended the landing gear, then retracted them again. The airplane landed with the right main gear extended and the left main gear partially extended. The airplane exited the end of the runway, collided with a runway light, then yawed to the right. The airplane came to rest upright, and the pilot and passenger egressed without further incident.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and left aileron. The airplane has been retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov