Primary finding
Probable cause
a loss of power for undetermined reasons.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The aircraft lost engine power during the takeoff initial climb and collided with trees during a forced landing. The pilot reported that he purchased 20 gallons of fuel from the airport prior to departure. Responding fire department personnel stated that they turned off the fuel valve to control a fuel line leak after the accident. An FAA inspector examined the aircraft and reported finding no discrepancies. Fuel samples from the aircraft tanks and carburetor, and from the airport fuel truck used to refuel the aircraft, were taken for laboratory analysis. According to the laboratory report, the fuel samples tested were consistent with aviation gasoline. No significant water or other contaminants were found.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 1, 1995, at 1435 hours mountain standard time, a Piper PA-22-160, N2820Z, collided with trees during a forced landing following takeoff at Payson, Arizona. The forced landing was precipitated by a loss of engine power in the takeoff initial climb. The aircraft was owned and operated by the pilot, and was beginning a personal cross-country flight to Glendale, Arizona. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. The certificated private pilot and his one passenger sustained minor injuries. The flight was originating at the time of the accident. The pilot reported that he purchased 20 gallons of fuel from the airport prior to departure. Responding fire department personnel stated that they turned off the fuel valve to control a fuel line leak after the accident. An FAA inspector from the Scottsdale, Arizona, Flight Standards District Office examined the aircraft and reported finding no discrepancies. Fuel samples from the aircraft tanks and carburetor, and from the airport fuel truck used to refuel the aircraft, were taken for laboratory analysis. According to the laboratory report, the fuel samples tested were consistent with aviation gasoline. No significant water or other contaminants were found. -