2007-02-11: Piper PA-32-300 — Pellston, MI

Casualties unknown • Pellston, MI, US

Probable cause

The fatigue failure of the engine cylinder which resulted in a complete loss of engine power, and the unsuitable terrain encountered by the pilot during the subsequent forced landing. Contributing to the accident were the night lighting condition, and trees.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The airplane was substantially damaged when it impacted trees and terrain during a forced landing at night following a mechanical failure of the engine. Examination of the engine revealed that one of the engine cylinders had failed due to fatigue. The origin of the fatigue region coincided with an area that had been thinned by corrosion. The area in question had been covered by gray paint. Checks performed at the most recent annual inspection revealed normal compression readings on all cylinders.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-02-11 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Pellston, MI?

The airplane was substantially damaged when it impacted trees and terrain during a forced landing at night following a mechanical failure of the engine. Examination of the engine revealed that one of the engine cylinders had failed due to fatigue. The origin of the fatigue region coincided with an area that had been…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-02-11 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N4258R, at Pellston, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The fatigue failure of the engine cylinder which resulted in a complete loss of engine power, and the unsuitable terrain encountered by the pilot during the subsequent forced landing. Contributing to the accident were the night lighting condition, and trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070216X00199. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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