Casualties unknown

1998-07-23: Piper PA-28R-200 (N222LC) — Baker, CA

Baker, CA, US

On July 23, 1998, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N222LC) was involved in an aviation accident near Baker, 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced fuel flow fluctuation and rough engine, then aborted a landing due to wind change. Applying full power, the engine did not respond, resulting in a runway overrun and collision with an elevated road. Postaccident inspection found no anomalies.

Event Sequence

While en route to the destination airport, the pilot observed that the fuel flow gauge was fluctuating and the engine began to run roughly. He switched to the backup electric fuel pump, and the engine smoothed out. Shortly thereafter, the fuel flow gauge again provided an intermittent reading. The pilot decided to make a precautionary landing at an alternate airport and overflew the field to check the windsock for wind direction. He reported that at touchdown he noted a wind change to a tailwind and decided to abort the landing. He applied full power, but the engine did not respond. The airplane was landed straight ahead, overran the runway, and struck an elevated road.

Preflight Maintenance

The pilot reported that prior to the flight, on the day of the accident, the airplane had been refueled. After fueling, he conducted a run-up and noted that the engine was sputtering. He taxied to a maintenance facility and asked them to inspect the aircraft. The maintenance facility found that the fuel injector nozzles were dirty. They cleaned and reinstalled them. The pilot conducted another run-up with no discrepancies noted and departed the airport.

Postaccident Inspection

A postaccident engine test run and inspection were conducted with no anomalies noted. The fuel system was inspected, to include the fuel servo unit, with no discrepancies found.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10639. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.