On July 30, 1992, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N8078H) operated by Palomar Flight was involved in an aviation accident near Ravendale, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE SHORT LENGTH OF THE RUNWAY WAS A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT. 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.
The pilot reported the engine lost power at about 100 feet AGL during initial climb. After landing on the runway, the aircraft overran and struck a fence. FAA inspection found no engine or system abnormality.
Accident Details
During the takeoff initial climb, the pilot reported that the aircraft achieved an altitude of about 100 feet above ground level (AGL) when the engine suddenly quit. The pilot executed a touch-and-go landing on the runway but was unable to stop the aircraft prior to overrunning the end of the runway. Subsequently, the aircraft collided with a fence.
Post-Accident Examination
The aircraft and its engine were examined by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airworthiness inspectors. According to the inspection results, no engine or system abnormalities were found that could explain the loss of engine power.
What happened in the 30 Jul 1992 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Ravendale, CA?
The pilot reported the engine lost power at about 100 feet AGL during initial climb. After landing on the runway, the aircraft overran and struck a fence. FAA inspection found no engine or system abnormality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Jul 1992 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N8078H, operated by Palomar Flight, at Ravendale, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE SHORT LENGTH OF THE RUNWAY WAS A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT.
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