Aviation Accident Summary ATL96LA003

GULF SHORES, AL, USA

Aircraft #1

N6674Z

Piper PA-25-235

Analysis

The pilot stated that moments after lift-off, the engine began running roughly. At an altitude of about 20 feet, the engine lost power. The pilot stated that the airplane was headed in the direction of a row of trees, so he negotiated a 90 degree left turn to avoid the obstructions. Airspeed dissipated, and the airplane settled to the ground. The landing gear was broken off during ground impact. During an investigation, the propeller was replaced, and an operational check of the engine was performed. The engine operated in accordance with the manufacturer's operating specifications.

Factual Information

On October 6, 1995, about 1745 central daylight time, a Piper PA-25-236, N6674Z, collided with the ground during a forced landing, following a loss of engine power after take off, at Kiwi Airfield, near Gulf Shores, Alabama. The airplane was operated by Kiwi Sky Signs, Inc. under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 91, and visual flight rules. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The pilot was not injured, and the airplane was substantially damaged. A flight plan was not filed for the local banner tow flight, which was originating at the time of the accident. According to the operator, after take off, the engine began running roughly. Upon reaching an altitude of about 20 feet, the engine failed. He stated that the aircraft was headed in the direction of a row of trees, where he then negotiated a 90 degree left turn to avoid the oncoming obstruction. The airspeed largely dissipated, resulting in a stall. The airplane then collided with the ground before it could be recovered from the stall. The landing gear was broken off during the ground impact. An inspection was performed on the aircraft by an Aviation Safety Inspector during which the propeller was replaced, and the engine was run. The engine operated in accordance with the manufacturer's operating specifications.

Probable Cause and Findings

Loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). A factor relating to the accident was: the proximity of high obstructions (trees) to the emergency landing area.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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