On July 28, 1983, a Piper PA-38 (registration N25273) was involved in an aviation accident near Port Manatee, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After a low pass and pull-up, the pilot experienced a power loss. The aircraft settled back onto the strip, and despite applying flaps, it ended up in a lake after bouncing through a field.
Incident Overview
The pilot first overflew the airstrip to check its condition before re-entering the traffic pattern for a touch-and-go landing. After touchdown, the pilot applied full power and conducted a low pass down the strip.
Loss of Power and Descent
Approaching the midpoint of the strip, the pilot began a pull-up and noticed a loss of engine power. The aircraft subsequently settled back onto the strip. With insufficient distance to stop before the end of the strip, the pilot applied one notch of flaps in an attempt to increase lift.
Final Landing and Outcome
The aircraft continued beyond the strip and made a landing in a field that led to a lake. Upon contacting the terrain, the aircraft bounced and ultimately ended up in the lake.