1,000 Ft Above The Ground When The Engine Started Running Rough

Location: Star Valley, AZ Accident Number: WPR23LA031
Date & Time: November 11, 2022, 11:47 Local Registration: N3131J
Aircraft: Cessna 150G Injuries: 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation – Personal

On November 11, 2022, about 1147 mountain standard time, a Cessna C-150 airplane, N3131J, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Payson, Arizona. The pilot was seriously injured. The airplane was operated as a 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The airplane was the second airplane in a flight of two that departed Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (DVT) Phoenix, Arizona, at 1115 with a planned destination of Ak-Chin Regional Airport (A39) Maricopa, Arizona. The pilot stated he was climbing over rising terrain and about 1,000 ft above the ground when the engine started running rough. He applied carburetor heat and manipulated the engine controls, but the engine did not respond. He attempted to land in a clearing but, collided with trees before reaching the desired landing area. The airplane came to rest inverted.

The wreckage was retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov