Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-140 near New London, NC — 2023-07-24

Final reportERA23LA310
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Date
2023-07-24
Location
New London, NC, USA
Airport
VUJ
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-140
Registration
N98134
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power due to the No. 4 cylinder’s stuck exhaust valve.

NTSB narrative

The student pilot and flight instructor reported that the engine lost partial power after takeoff, when the airplane was climbing. The instructor assumed control of the airplane, attempted to restore power, and performed a forced landing. The airplane contacted trees and a powerline during the landing. Postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the exhaust valve in the No. 4 cylinder was stuck in the open position. Based on this finding, it is likely that the partial loss of engine power was the result of the No. 4 cylinder’s stuck exhaust valve.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Instructor could have aborted the flight during preflight or takeoff if engine issues were suspected.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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