Primary finding
Probable cause
Loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Immediately after takeoff, the engine lost power at approximately 200 feet agl and collided with trees off of the airport. One witness stated that a puff of blue smoke emanated from the exhaust. The pilot reported what he believed to be a fouled plug which corrected itself during engine runup. Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction.
Source record
Factual narrative
On January 9, 1994, at about 1330 central standard time, a Piper PA-28-151, N14CL, collided with trees during takeoff from Jasper, Alabama. The aircraft was operated by the pilot under 14 CFR part 91 and visual flight rules. A VFR flight plan had been filed for a cross-country flight to Huntsville, Alabama. The pilot had minor injuries, while the aircraft was substantially damaged. The flight was originating at the time of the accident. The pilot reported what he believed to be a fouled spark plug which corrected itself during a normal engine run-up. Immediately following a normal takeoff roll and rotation, the aircraft lost power at approximately 200 feet AGL. One witness indicated that a puff of blue smoke emanated from the aircraft's exhaust immediately after power loss. On impact, the aircraft rotated 180 degrees and settled in the trees. No malfunctions were found during an examination of the aircraft's engine. The engine's magnetos and leads to the spark plugs were tested and found operable. The induction system and air filter were found clear of foreign debris. The spark plugs were clean and of normal coloration in accordance with a spark plug test chart. Fuel in the aircraft was blue in color and free from water contamination. The carburetor was inspected and found to be in good operating condition. Compression tests on the engine revealed that compression ranged from 75-80/80 psi and all valves demonstrated freedom of movement. -