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Engine Power Loss After Takeoff Results in Collision with Power Line and Shed (N6439J)

Mt. Airy, NC, US

On August 19, 1983, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N6439J) was involved in an aviation accident near Mt. Airy, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power during takeoff for undetermined reasons. A contributing factor was unsuitable terrain for a forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported an engine abnormality after takeoff, followed by a complete power loss. The aircraft struck a power line, a tree, then a shed after an off-field landing attempt.

Accident Sequence

According to the pilot, after takeoff at about 300 feet above ground level (AGL), an abnormality was noticed, although there was no loss of engine RPM. The pilot initiated a turn to return for landing. During the turn, the engine lost power completely. Before the aircraft could reach a field straight ahead, it struck a power line, causing the pilot to lose control. Subsequently, the aircraft struck the top of a tree, touched down behind a house, slid approximately 100 feet, and struck a shed.

Post-Accident Examination

A post-accident examination of the engine was conducted. The examination revealed no reason for the power loss.

Engine failure

Related events

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Aug 1983 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Mt. Airy, NC?

A pilot reported an engine abnormality after takeoff, followed by a complete power loss. The aircraft struck a power line, a tree, then a shed after an off-field landing attempt.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Aug 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N6439J, at Mt. Airy, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A loss of engine power during takeoff for undetermined reasons. A contributing factor was unsuitable terrain for a forced landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44011. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.