Accident Overview
On December 23, 2012, at approximately 1315 eastern standard time, a Piper PA28RT-201T, registration N4340G, experienced a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff from runway 05 at Boca Raton Airport (BCT), Boca Raton, Florida. The forced landing that followed resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft. The private pilot and the passenger were not injured.
Pilot and Aircraft Information
The pilot held a private pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single-engine land and instrument airplane, and reported 4,100 total flight hours, with 3,900 hours in the accident make and model. The most recent FAA third-class medical certificate was issued in May 2011.
The aircraft, manufactured in 1984, was a Piper PA28RT-201T equipped with a Continental Motors TSIO-360 series, 201 horsepower, turbocharged reciprocating engine. Its most recent annual inspection was completed on January 15, 2012. The engine had accumulated about 100 hours since its most recent overhaul, and the aircraft total time was 4,100 hours at the time of the accident.
Flight and Engine Power Loss
The pilot reported that a pre-takeoff engine run-up revealed no anomalies. After initiating the takeoff and rotating, the landing gear was raised. At an altitude of about 100 feet above ground level, the engine suddenly stopped without sputtering. The aircraft began to experience an aerodynamic stall. The pilot lowered the nose and attempted to flare for landing. The aircraft touched down on all three landing gear, with the left main and nose landing gear collapsing. The aircraft slid off the left side of the runway, resulting in substantial damage to both wings.
Post-Accident Examination
No examination of the engine or fuel system was conducted following the accident, and the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Weather Conditions
Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. No flight plan was filed for the personal flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. The 1253 weather observation at Pompano Beach Airpark, about 8 nautical miles south of the accident site, included wind from 110 degrees at 9 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, clear skies, temperature 21°C, dew point 11°C, and an altimeter setting of 30.21 inches of mercury.