Casualties unknown

1995-08-14: Piper PA-31 (N9123Y) — Ironwood, MI

Ironwood, MI, US

On August 14, 1995, a Piper PA-31 (registration N9123Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Ironwood, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during the aborted takeoff. A factor was the partial loss of engine power for an undetermined reason. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported losing left engine power at about 25 feet during takeoff, executed a straight-ahead landing, and the airplane slid left of the runway through a drainage ditch. Post-accident examination found no airframe issues, but the engine produced only 85% of rated power when tested.

Event Summary

During a normal takeoff, the pilot reported that the left engine lost power when the airplane reached approximately 25 feet above the runway. In response, the pilot lowered the nose, pulled the power, and landed straight ahead. The airplane touched down left of the runway and subsequently slid through a drainage ditch.

Examination Findings

An examination of the airframe following the incident revealed no evidence of preimpact malfunction or failure. The airframe was inspected for any structural or system issues that could have contributed to the power loss, but none were found.

Engine Test

The left engine, which had lost power, was tested in an "as received" condition without any prior adjustments or repairs. During the test, the engine produced 85 percent of its rated power. The source does not specify whether this output is within normal operating parameters or indicates a specific fault.

No further details about the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, or other circumstances were provided in the initial report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04208. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.