SEA96LA178

Factual narrative

On August 5, 1996, approximately 1130 Pacific daylight time, a Piper PA-12, N2564M, registered to and being flown by a private pilot, was substantially damaged during a forced landing into high vegetation following a total loss of power during the initial climb after takeoff from the Astoria Airport, Astoria, Oregon. The pilot sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed. The flight, which was personal, was to have been operated under 14CFR91, and was destined for Troutdale, Oregon. The ELT was activated by the impact. The pilot reported that he executed a mid-field takeoff from runway 26, and while climbing through 200 feet above ground level (AGL), the engine abruptly stopped. Unable to achieve a restart, he executed a forced landing into an area of heavy brush slightly west of the upwind end of runway 26. An FAA monitored engine inspection determined that the carburetor heat box flapper valve had broken loose and moved into a position where it restricted the airflow in the carburetor throat. During the initial climb after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power at about 200 feet above ground level (AGL). The pilot maneuvered the aircraft to a forced landing in high vegetation, where it received substantial damage during touchdown. An inspection of the engine revealed that the carburetor heat box flapper valve had broken off and was restricting air flow in the carburetor throat. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database (Pre-2008 Archive) Retrieved: 2026-02-12