Accident Overview
On August 3, 2010, at approximately 0845 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-28-161, registration N9101M, was substantially damaged after striking trees and terrain following an engine failure shortly after takeoff from Becks Grove Airport (K16) in Blossvale, New York. The aircraft was operated by a private individual under 14 CFR Part 91. The certificated private pilot and one passenger received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed.
Pilot Actions and Sequence of Events
The pilot reported the flight was destined for White Plains, New York. Shortly after takeoff from runway 6, at an altitude of 100 to 150 feet above ground level, the engine "sputtered and lost power." The pilot switched fuel tanks, after which the engine quit. During an attempt to return to the airport, the airplane made a forced landing in a wooded area approximately 1,200 feet east of the departure end of runway 6. The pilot stated there was adequate fuel on board.
Post-Accident Examination
Two FAA inspectors examined the wreckage. Wing fuel tanks were damaged, resulting in a fuel spill. The wreckage was recovered to the airport for further inspection. Hand-turning the propeller confirmed internal engine continuity and compression on all four cylinders. Magnetos produced spark on all leads. The engine-driven fuel pump operated normally when actuated by hand. The fuel strainer was crushed. Spark plugs exhibited normal color and wear. The carburetor accelerator pump operated normally. A small amount of residual fuel from the carburetor showed no water. Engine controls were intact: mixture full rich, throttle full open, carburetor heat off. The fuel tank selector valve was in the right tank position and functioned normally when compressed air was passed through the fuel lines.
Weather Conditions and Carburetor Icing
At 0853, the weather observation for Rome, New York (RME) reported: ceiling 3,700 feet overcast, wind from 110 degrees at 5 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, temperature 23°C, dew point 19°C, altimeter 30.04 inches of mercury. Carburetor icing charts indicated the aircraft was operating in conditions conducive to carburetor icing at glide power at the time of the accident.