Casualties unknown

Takeoff Aborted After Engine Power Loss Leads to Runway Excursion (N5913W)

Hammond, NY, US

On July 14, 1989, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5913W) was involved in an aviation accident near Hammond, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S DECISION TO ABORT THE TAKEOFF WITH INSUFFICIENT RUNWAY REMAINING. CONTRIBUTING TO THE THE ACCIDENT WAS A WET GRASS RUNWAY AND THE FAULTY TACHOMETER WHICH INFLUENCED THE PILOT'S DECISION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

During takeoff, the pilot aborted after noticing a power loss and RPM drop. The airplane landed on the wet runway but ran off the end, striking tree stumps. Post-accident examination found the tachometer reading 100 RPM low.

Accident Details

During the takeoff roll, the airplane accelerated normally until rotation. The pilot reported noticing a loss of power and a drop in engine RPM to 2100. At that time, the airplane was approximately 5 feet above the ground with about 900 feet of runway remaining. The pilot decided to abort the takeoff and landed back onto the wet runway surface.

Runway Excursion and Impact

After touching down, the airplane was unable to stop within the remaining runway length and ran off the end. Subsequently, it struck several tree stumps, causing damage to the aircraft.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination conducted after the accident revealed that the engine tachometer indicated 100 RPM lower than the actual engine speed. No further details were provided regarding the cause of the power loss or the discrepancy in the tachometer reading.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jul 1989 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Hammond, NY?

During takeoff, the pilot aborted after noticing a power loss and RPM drop. The airplane landed on the wet runway but ran off the end, striking tree stumps. Post-accident examination found the tachometer reading 100 RPM low.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jul 1989 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5913W, at Hammond, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S DECISION TO ABORT THE TAKEOFF WITH INSUFFICIENT RUNWAY REMAINING. CONTRIBUTING TO THE THE ACCIDENT WAS A WET GRASS RUNWAY AND THE FAULTY TACHOMETER WHICH INFLUENCED THE PILOT'S DECISION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28962. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.