On December 13, 1999, a Piper PA-32RT-300T (registration N21312) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Lauderdale, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the pilot to maintain minimum flying airspeed, (Vso) during takeoff following a partial loss of engine power resulting in the aircraft stalling, an uncontrolled descent, and collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff climb, the aircraft experienced a partial engine power loss due to an intermittently operative right-hand magneto condenser. The aircraft stalled, struck trees, and came to rest partially submerged in a marina basin. The aircraft was overweight, and the pilot lacked recent flight review currency.
Accident Overview
During the takeoff climb at approximately 150 feet above ground level, the aircraft sustained a partial loss of engine power. The pilot reported that the airplane stalled and collided with trees before coming to rest partially submerged in a marina basin.
Engine and Component Examination
Disassembly examination of the core engine and all fuel components found no mechanical abnormalities. The right-hand magneto condenser underwent bench testing and disassembly examination, which revealed no damage attributable to submersion. However, a short to ground was identified that would have rendered the magneto inoperative.
Weight and Documentation Issues
Computations using the pilot's estimate of fuel, occupant weights, and FAA estimates of baggage and cargo indicated the aircraft was approximately 272 pounds over its maximum gross takeoff weight. Additionally, the pilot was not current with a biennial flight review, and the conversion to a three-bladed propeller was not properly documented in the maintenance records.