Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-161 near Blossvale, NY — 2010-08-03

Final reportERA10LA395
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Date
2010-08-03
Location
Blossvale, NY, USA
Airport
K16
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-161
Registration
N9101M
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, at about 100 to 150 feet above ground level, the engine began to lose power. The pilot switched fuel tanks and the engine subsequently lost all power. The airplane then collided with trees during a forced landing about 1,200 feet east of the departure end of the runway. The pilot reported that there was adequate fuel on board for the flight; both fuel tanks were damaged during the collision and there was evidence of leaking fuel at the site. An examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of preexisting mechanical anomalies. While the airplane was operating in conditions conducive to carburetor icing at glide power at the time of the accident, the investigation was unable to determine if carburetor ice caused the power loss.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff after engine sputtered.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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