Primary finding
Probable cause
The partial loss of engine power. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the initial climb the engine lost power and the pilot executed a forced landing in a field off the departure end of the runway. The aircraft struck a fence. An examination of the aircraft revealed that the muffler baffle had come loose.
Source record
Factual narrative
On April 1, 1994, at 1820 central standard time, a Piper PA-28- 140, N3521K, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near San Angelo, Texas. The private pilot and passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight. The pilot stated in the Pilot/Operator report that after takeoff the aircraft would not develop sufficient power to maintain altitude. He further reported that he executed a forced landing in a field and that "on roll out, the wing tips struck a fence" west of the departure end of the runway. An examination of the aircraft by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector and the operator revealed that the muffler baffle had come lose. The aircraft was released to the owner. -