Pilot Debrief

Piper PA28 near New Market, VA — 2018-10-25

Final reportERA19LA033
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Date
2018-10-25
Location
New Market, VA, USA
Aircraft
Piper PA28
Registration
N68DW
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

A loss of engine power on takeoff due to restricted air flow to the engine.

NTSB narrative

The private pilot stated that, shortly after takeoff for the cross-country, personal flight, the engine suddenly lost partial power. Subsequently, he made a forced landing to a corn field, during which the left main landing gear penetrated the left wing and separated from the airplane, the nose landing gear collapsed, and the firewall and engine mount sustained substantial damage. Postaccident examination of the engine did not reveal evidence of any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The carburetor exhibited no external damage; however, when the air box and alternate air control were removed, a dead mouse fell out of the intake manifold.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked for obstructions in the intake before takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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