On August 6, 1991, a Piper J3-C65 (registration N30837) operated by Cub Club, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Westerly, RI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: ENGINE FAILURE FOR AN UNDETERMINED REASON. A FACTOR WAS THE PILOT MISJUDGING THE CLEARANCE OVER A FENCE DURING AN ATTEMPTED FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced partial power loss at 300 feet after takeoff. Attempting to return to the airport, the airplane descended, leading to a forced landing on a street. On short final, it struck a fence and lost control, coming to rest near the terminal.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported a partial power loss during the initial climb after takeoff, while the airplane was passing through approximately 300 feet above ground level. In response, the pilot initiated a turn with the intention of returning to the departure airport.
Sequence of Events
As the turn progressed, the airplane began to develop an increased descent rate. The pilot then reassessed the forced landing options and changed the intended landing area from in front of the airport terminal to a nearby street. During the final approach to the street, the airplane struck a chain link fence. Following the impact with the fence, control of the airplane was lost, and it subsequently came to rest in front of the terminal building.
Investigation Findings
The reason for the partial power loss could not be determined during the investigation. No further causal factors were identified.