N150YKYakovlev YAK-50 · 1982

On June 7, 2025, about 1252 Pacific daylight time, a Yakovlev YAK-50, N150YK, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Hayward, California. The pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot reported that this was the first flight after the airplane completed an annual inspection. He topped off the fuel tank with about 41 gallons fuel and reported all preflight and engine runup checks were with the operating range. Once cleared for takeoff, the pilot increased engine power and visually checked the instruments, seeing all normal indications. As The airplane ascended, he raised the landing gear, he saw that the propeller was indicating 100% power. The airplane continued to accelerate normally for about 5 to 6 seconds. While about 100 ft above the runway and about 100 knots airspeed, the engine began to run rough. The pilot declared an emergency and the tower controller cleared him to land on any runway. Despite not making any changes to the throttle or propeller, the engine power had degraded to about 80%. The pilot elected to make 180° turn and land on the runway in the opposite direction. While about 90° through the turn, and about 30 ft above ground level, he lowered the landing gear. At that time the engine lost total power. Unable to maintain altitude the pilot leveled the wings and made a forced landing on a grass field. During the landing roll, one of the main landing gear separated and the airplane impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage to both wings.

The airplane was recovered to a secure facility for further examination.