NTSB Factual Report

On October 31, 2002, at 1655 central standard time, a Cessna 172N single-engine airplane, N1317E, was substantially damaged when it impacted wires and terrain during a forced landing following a complete loss of engine power during initial takeoff climb from the Williams Airport (9X1), Porter, Texas. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot receiving instruction. The certified flight instructor (CFI) sustained minor injuries and private pilot receiving instruction was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan was not filed for 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight. The local flight was originating at the time of the accident.

According to the CFI and private pilot, the CFI was giving the private pilot a biennial flight review. The private pilot stated that his preflight inspection and pre-takeoff engine run-up did not reveal any anomalies. The pilot demonstrated a short field takeoff, and while climbing through 500 feet agl, the flight instructor simulated an engine failure. According to the private pilot, he accomplished the restart procedures and at completion of the maneuver the private went to advance the throttle; however, realized that the throttle was already at the full power position (full in), and that the mixture control was retarded. (The CFI stated that he retarded the throttle control to the idle position when he simulated the engine failure.) The private pilot then advanced the mixture control and the engine lost total power. The private pilot attempted to restart the engine; however, was unsuccessful. A forced landing was executed to a soccer field 3/4 mile from 9X1, during which the airplane contacted power lines, and subsequently, the airplane impacted the ground.

An FAA inspector, who examined the airplane, reported that the right wing was structurally damaged and the engine firewall was damaged.

NTSB Probable Cause

The loss of engine power for an undetermined reason.