On July 7, 2003, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N569RA) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Smith, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons during the climb out. A factor was the ditch encountered during the forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane sustained substantial damage during a forced landing following an in-flight loss of engine power in initial climb. Investigation found full fuel tanks, sparking magnetos, and no anomalies.
Incident Overview
An airplane experienced an in-flight loss of engine power during the initial climb, prompting a forced landing. The pilot reported that the engine stopped without any noticeable loss of power before it ceased during the climb out. During the forced landing, the airplane nosed into a ditch, resulting in substantial damage.
Examination Findings
A post-accident examination was conducted to determine the cause of the power loss. Both fuel tanks were found to be full. Both magnetos produced a spark when rotated, and engine continuity was established. No anomalies were detected during the examination.