On August 11, 1997, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N8213P) was involved in an aviation accident near Palm Bch Garden, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reasons and the pilot's failure to maintain flying speed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a training flight with touch-and-go landings, the engine quit after a loud backfire sound. The airplane entered a steep left turn at 250 feet, reversed direction, and impacted the ground nearly vertically, bursting into flames.
Accident Sequence
The training flight had completed several touch-and-go landings and was climbing out when the accident occurred. An eyewitness working on the ramp reported hearing a loud sound similar to a backfire just as the engine stopped. The airplane was at an altitude of approximately 250 feet when it entered an abrupt, steep left turn. The aircraft turned almost 180 degrees and struck the ground in a near-vertical attitude. The wreckage came to rest 180 feet to the left of the extended centerline of the departure runway. Almost immediately after impact, the airplane erupted into flames.
Wreckage Examination
During the on-site examination of the wreckage, investigators established flight control continuity. The engine sustained extensive fire damage, and the accessory section was also damaged by fire. Crankshaft and camshaft continuity was verified.
Engine Examination
A teardown inspection of the engine revealed that all internal components exhibited normal wear patterns.
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