On September 30, 1991, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2513N) operated by Suburban Air Service Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Laurel, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb on the first flight of the day, an aircraft's engine lost power at 200 feet MSL. The instructor attempted restart, then conducted a forced landing in a field, striking a tree and utility pole, damaging the wings.
Accident Overview
On the first flight of the day, the accident aircraft completed a preflight inspection that included draining the fuel sumps for contamination. The pre-takeoff engine run-up was satisfactory. The instructor reported that after departure from Runway 3, while climbing through 200 feet mean sea level (MSL), the engine lost power.
Attempted Restart and Forced Landing
The instructor unsuccessfully attempted to restart the engine. A forced landing was executed in a field located approximately half a mile north of the airport. During the approach to the field, the aircraft struck a tree and a utility pole, resulting in damage to the wings.
Engine Examination
A subsequent examination of the engine did not disclose any evidence of malfunction.