Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-161 near Buffalo, NY — 2014-08-14

Final reportERA14LA388
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Date
2014-08-14
Location
Buffalo, NY, USA
Airport
BUF
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-161
Registration
N706GS
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because a postaccident examination of the airframe and engine test run revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB narrative

The flight instructor was providing an introductory flight to the passengers. Following an uneventful preflight inspection and engine run-up, the flight instructor prepared to depart. An air traffic controller offered, and the instructor accepted, an intersection takeoff that reduced the runway's 8,800-ft available takeoff length by about half. Shortly after rotation, the engine briefly lost all power. As the flight instructor attempted to troubleshoot the problem, the engine power was briefly restored, and she then decided to return to the airport and land. As she turned the airplane back toward the runway, the engine again lost total power. As the airplane's airspeed decreased, she chose to perform a forced landing to a parking lot, during which the airplane was substantially damaged. A postaccident engine test run revealed no anomalies, and examination of the airframe and fuel system revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Instructor could have aborted takeoff after first power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

Related mishaps

PIPER PA-28-161 near Buffalo, NY — 2014-08-14 · Pilot Debrief