Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA32 near Ozark, MO — 2023-11-17

Final reportCEN24LA039
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Date
2023-11-17
Location
Ozark, MO, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA32
Registration
N16253
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Descent

Probable cause

A reported total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

During cruise flight, the airplane’s engine sustained a total loss of power. Unable to restore engine power, the pilot performed a forced landing to a field. During the approach to landing, the airplane collided with a power line and subsequently impacted terrain and came to rest inverted. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. Postaccident examination of the airplane confirmed that fuel was present in all four tanks, and no mechanical anomalies were noted with the engine that would have precluded normal operation. At the time of the postaccident examination, the magnetos would not produce spark, likely due to water intrusion from outside storage of the wreckage following the accident. The reason for the total loss of engine power could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel levels before switching tanks.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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