Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Sudden Engine Power Loss After Takeoff (N5293W)

Burlington, WI, US

On August 1, 2000, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5293W) was involved in an aviation accident near Burlington, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reasons and the pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the fence during the forced landing attempt. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power at 300 feet during a right turn. Fuel examination showed negligible fuel in the left main tank and 10 gallons in the right. The engine later ran at idle.

Incident Description

According to the pilot's statement, shortly after becoming airborne, at approximately 300 feet above the ground, the aircraft engine experienced a sudden loss of power. The pilot, who was already in a slight right-hand turn, sharpened the turn in an attempt to return to the runway, but the attempt was unsuccessful.

Post-Crash Examination

Following the accident, an examination of the fuel system revealed negligible fuel in the left main tank, while the right main tank contained approximately 10 gallons of fuel. The fuel selector was positioned on the right tank. Fuel was observed in the gascolator. When the engine was started during the post-crash examination, it operated at idle power. Examination of the remaining airplane systems showed no anomalies.

No additional information regarding the aircraft type, registration, or injuries was provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Aug 2000 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Burlington, WI?

A pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power at 300 feet during a right turn. Fuel examination showed negligible fuel in the left main tank and 10 gallons in the right. The engine later ran at idle.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Aug 2000 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5293W, at Burlington, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

loss of engine power for undetermined reasons and the pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the fence during the forced landing attempt. Factors relating to the accident were the pilot's improper in-flight planning and decision to turn back toward the runway during the forced landing attempt, the airport fence,…

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21665. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.