Accident Overview
On October 1, 2016, at approximately 1020 central daylight time, a Piper PA-28-140, registration N499TG, was substantially damaged during a forced landing after a total loss of engine power while executing a go-around at Hesler-Noble Airport (LUL) in Laurel, Mississippi. The student pilot, who was also the registered owner and operator of the airplane, was not injured. No flight plan was filed for the personal flight, which originated from Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport (PIB) at about 1000. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and the flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pilot and Flight Details
The student pilot reported a total of 90 flight hours, with 60 hours in the Piper PA-28-140. His most recent Federal Aviation Administration third-class medical certificate was issued on September 30, 2016. The engine, manufactured in 1978, had accumulated about 1,520 total hours at the time of the accident.
Sequence of Events
According to the student pilot, the flight departed with full fuel and proceeded to LUL for practice takeoffs and landings. Before the first landing attempt, he ensured the mixture was full-rich, and both the electric fuel pump and carburetor heat were on. After reducing power and extending flaps, he judged the airplane too high and initiated a go-around. He applied full power, retracted the flaps, and turned off the carburetor heat. Shortly thereafter, the engine began running rough and experienced a total loss of power. The pilot turned the carburetor heat back on, confirmed the electric fuel pump was still operating, and switched fuel tanks, but engine power was not restored.
Forced Landing and Damage
The pilot executed a forced landing to a field adjacent to the airport. During the landing roll, the left main landing gear entered a large hole, causing substantial damage to the left wing, an engine mount, the left main landing gear, and the nose wheel.
Postaccident Examination
Postaccident examination revealed sufficient fuel in both wing tanks. Fuel samples from each wing tank and the gascolator were free of water and debris. Attempts to start the engine using the airplane's own fuel system initially failed; when the fuel boost pump was turned on, no pressure was registered, and a fuel odor was noted. Further inspection found the carburetor had flooded and was leaking due to a stuck float. The carburetor was removed and disassembled; no anomalies were found with the needle and seat, and there was no evidence of the float rubbing or binding. After reassembly and reinstallation, the fuel boost pump registered a pressure of 7 psi. The engine was started and ran up to 1,800 rpm, limited by the broken engine mount. Magneto and carburetor heat tests revealed no anomalies.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported at LUL at 1035 included calm wind, clear skies, visibility greater than 10 miles, temperature 68°F, and dew point 59°F.