NTSB Factual Report

On October 15, 2005, about 1615 Pacific daylight time, a Boeing B75N1 (Stearman), N5158N, sustained substantial damage following an in-flight collision with a utility pole and subsequent collision with terrain approximately 2 miles east of the Skagit Regional Airport, Burlington, Washington. The airplane, which is registered to Knutzen Farms, was being operated by the pilot as a visual flight rules (VFR) local flight under the provisions of Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The commercial pilot and passenger were uninjured in the crash. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the flight that originated from Skagit Regional approximately 30 minutes prior to the accident.

The pilot reported that he noted a reduction in engine power during the initial climb just after completing a touch-and-go landing at a private airstrip near Burlington. He stated that the airplane's takeoff and climb performance was diminished to a point where he elected to initiate an off airport landing to a nearby field. During the approach to the field, the airplane collided with a utility pole resulting in an uncontrolled descent and collision with terrain.

The basis of the rough running engine was not determined.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a utility pole during a precautionary landing. The utility pole was a factor.