Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing

Casualties unknown • Aliceville, AL, US

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency descent and landing after experiencing a complete loss of engine power during flight.

What happened

The pilot performed a preflight inspection prior to departure, noting no issues with the aircraft. Following takeoff, the aircraft climbed normally to 5500 feet. Approximately 30 minutes into the flight, the pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power. After attempting emergency procedures to restore power without success, the pilot initiated an emergency descent to perform a forced landing. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the impact.

The investigation

Mechanical examination of the aircraft revealed that the fuel line located between the fuel pump and the fuel injector had separated at the fuel injector. A review of the maintenance logs indicated that the aircraft had recently undergone an engine installation and a 100-hour inspection just five hours before the accident occurred. No other maintenance-related issues were identified during the examination.

Probable cause

The separation of the fuel line at the fuel injector caused the loss of engine power.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-10-02 Piper PA-24-260 accident near Aliceville, AL?

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency descent and landing after experiencing a complete loss of engine power during flight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-10-02 involved a Piper PA-24-260, registration N8548P, operated by Pickering And Mckinney, at Aliceville, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The separation of the fuel line at the fuel injector caused the loss of engine power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15806. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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