No fatalities

Single-Engine Aircraft Loses Power After Takeoff

Abbeville, LA, United States

On August 15, 2008, a PIPER PA-28-140 was involved in an aviation accident near Abbeville, LA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. Contributing to the accident was unsuitable terrain for a forced landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine airplane experienced a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot attempted an unsuccessful restart, and the aircraft sustained substantial damage during a forced landing. The cause could not be determined.

Incident

A single-engine airplane suffered a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. During the subsequent forced landing, the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the landing gear, both wings, and the engine firewall.

Occupants and Egress

The pilot, who had purchased the airplane on the morning of the accident, the sole passenger, and a flight instructor were aboard. All three occupants were able to exit the airplane unassisted.

Examination

A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the aircraft. The fuel selector was found in the "Right Tank" position. However, due to impact damage, verification of the right tank fuel quantity was not possible.

Conclusion

The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Contributing factors

Contributed to outcome

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Aug 2008 PIPER PA-28-140 accident near Abbeville, LA?

A single-engine airplane experienced a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot attempted an unsuccessful restart, and the aircraft sustained substantial damage during a forced landing. The cause could not be determined.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Aug 2008 PIPER PA-28-140 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Aug 2008 involved a PIPER PA-28-140, at Abbeville, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. Contributing to the accident was unsuitable terrain for a forced landing.