NTSB Factual Report

On April 4, 2003, approximately 1300 central standard time, an Ercoupe 415-C single-engine airplane, N93815, struck a telephone service box and a fence following a loss of engine power during the takeoff/initial climb near Ranger, Texas. The airplane was registered to a private individual and flown by the student pilot under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The student pilot, sole occupant, was not injured, and the airplane sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight, and a flight plan was not filed for the local flight, which was originating at the time of the accident.

Local authorities reported to the FAA inspector, who responded to the accident site, that during the takeoff/initial climb from runway 01 at the Ranger Municipal Airport (F23), the engine lost power. The airplane was found resting in a field, and the outboard portion of the left wing was separated from the airplane.

The FAA inspector reported that the airplane was registered to the pilot's father. On May 26, 1992, a third class medical certificate was issued to the student pilot who had logged 8.6 hours of flight.

Further, the pilot departed the accident scene, and has not responded to FAA inquiries. To date, a completed Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2) had not been received by the Safety Board.

The FAA inspector reported that the last annual inspection was performed on June 17, 1992. The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.

NTSB Probable Cause

The loss of engine power for an undetermined reason.