On June 1, 2001, a Piper PA-28R-180 (registration N3708T) was involved in an aviation accident near Albuquerque, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's diminished visual lookout, resulting in the wire strike. Contributing factors were the total mechanical failure of the cylinder, dusk, and the power transmission line. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, pilot heard a loud pop and experienced reduced engine power. Dusk limited visibility, leading to a power line strike that tore off the right wing, resulting in a crash. Investigation revealed a separated cylinder head.
Accident Overview
The pilot reported that after taking off and climbing to an altitude of 200 feet, a single loud pop was heard. The engine continued to produce some power, but insufficient to allow the airplane to return to the airport. The pilot noted that dusk hampered visibility somewhat, and he did not see the power lines ahead until it was too late. The right wing struck a power line and was torn off, and the airplane impacted a mesa.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination disclosed that the number 1 cylinder head (right front as viewed from the cockpit) had separated from the cylinder barrel. The engine had accumulated 1,933.15 hours total time when it was given a certified overhaul to new engine tolerances, zero-time equivalent, and reinstalled in the airplane in 1988. Two years later, all cylinders were removed, and the camshaft lobes and lifter faces were visually inspected for premature wear and galling; no unusual wear was noted. Only routine maintenance was recorded thereafter. At the time of the accident, the engine had accrued 1,585.04 hours since overhaul.