On April 3, 2004, a Piper PA-28R-180 (registration N19AG) was involved in an aviation accident near Elyria, OH. 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.
A certified flight instructor and a private pilot lost engine power about 2 miles from the runway during landing approach. The airplane struck the ground 700 feet short of the runway. Post-accident examination revealed no mechanical malfunctions.
Accident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a private pilot were conducting a flight that lasted approximately 50 minutes before returning for landing. While the airplane was about 2 miles from the approach end of the runway, a loss of engine power occurred. The CFI attempted to glide to the airport, but the airplane struck the ground approximately 700 feet before the runway threshold.
Aircraft Examination
The airplane had been operated for about 2.5 hours since its most recent annual inspection, which took place about 5 days prior to the accident. An examination of the airplane and engine revealed no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions. Control continuity was confirmed for the propeller, throttle, and mixture controls. Piston and valve train continuity were observed when the propeller was rotated by hand. Both the left and right magnetos produced spark when rotated. The engine-driven and fuel boost pumps operated normally, and the fuel system was free of contamination.