Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28R-201 near Olathe, KS — 2022-02-04

Final reportCEN22LA115
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Date
2022-02-04
Location
Olathe, KS, USA
Airport
OJC
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28R-201
Registration
N5145W
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot landed at the airport and added fuel to the airplane. On departure, when the airplane was about 700 ft above ground level, the engine stopped producing power. Recorded engine data showed a decrease in engine rpm, cylinder head temperature, and exhaust gas temperature about 2 minutes after takeoff. The pilot performed a forced landing to a field, which resulted in substantial damage to the airplane’s fuselage and wings. An examination of the engine and fuel system did not reveal any preimpact mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operations. The engine’s throttle body and fuel flow divider were sent for further examination. The bench test of the fuel servo indicated that the fuel flow was within tolerances; however, the idle fuel flow was lean with the metering head increased to the maximum limit. The examination of fuel servo and fuel flow divider found contamination with a substance consistent with a lubricant normally used during the assembly of the fuel servo. The fuel flow was within tolerances, and it is unlikely that the contamination would have resulted in the loss of engine power. Investigators were unable to determine the reason for the loss of engine power.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel system integrity before departure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents9

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