Primary finding
Probable cause
A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that the preflight inspection, engine start, engine run-up and takeoff were all normal, and there was no indication of any problems with the engine. After liftoff, when the airplane was about 500 ft above the ground, the engine stopped producing power, but the propeller continued to windmill. The pilot lowered the nose and began a gradual turn back toward the runway. The airplane landed on the grass and struck the airport’s perimeter fence, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. Data downloaded from the onboard engine monitor indicated a fluctuation in fuel flow prior to the loss of power. Postaccident examination of the fuel-injected engine and the airplane’s fuel system revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Therefore, the reason for the total loss of engine power was not determined.
Source record
Factual narrative
On November 19, 2021, at 1204 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-28R-200, N2305T, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at the Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport (GFL), Glens Falls, New York. The pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. According to the pilot, the preflight inspection, engine start, engine run-up and takeoff were all normal. After liftoff, the pilot retracted the landing gear, and during the initial climb, about 500 ft above the ground, the engine power “rolled back” but the propeller continued to windmill. The pilot stated he lowered the nose and began a gradual turn back toward the runway. The airplane landed on the grass and struck the airport’s perimeter fence, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. Data downloaded from the onboard engine monitor revealed fuel flow fluctuated before it dropped to zero. An examination of the fuel-injected engine and the airplane’s fuel system supervised by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.