Casualties unknown

Partial Power Loss During Initial Climb Results in Forced Landing on City Street (N711EW)

San Diego, CA, US

On August 9, 1997, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N711EW) was involved in an aviation accident near San Diego, CA. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a partial power loss at 1,500 feet during takeoff initial climb, followed by a complete loss of power. A forced landing on a city street resulted in substantial aircraft damage and minor damage to parked cars and a bus stop bench.

Event Description

The pilot reported that the aircraft experienced a partial power loss at 1,500 feet msl during the takeoff initial climb. Approximately 2 minutes later, the engine lost all power. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing on a city street.

Pilot Actions

At the time of the partial power loss, the pilot applied carburetor heat, turned on the electric fuel pump, switched from the left to the right fuel tank, and checked the position of the magneto switch. These actions did not restore power.

Damage

The forced landing resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft. Additionally, three parked cars and a bus stop passenger bench sustained minor damage.

Investigation Findings

During the onsite investigation, both fuel tanks were found to contain 100LL aviation fuel. Fuel continuity was established between the fuel tanks and the engine carburetor. After the aircraft was transported to a local hangar, the engine was placed on a test stand where it started and ran normally with no apparent malfunctions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08672. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.