Accident Overview
On October 6, 2016, at approximately 1015 central daylight time, a Piper PA-24-260 (registration N8560P) was substantially damaged following a total loss of engine power and a forced landing near Hollywood, Alabama. The commercial pilot and a flight instructor onboard were not injured. The aircraft was operated under 14 CFR Part 91 as an instructional flight. Day visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The local flight originated from Scottsboro Municipal Airport (4A6), Scottsboro, Alabama, about 1000.
Flight Sequence
The pilot reported performing a flight review with the flight instructor in the right cockpit seat. Ground operations and engine run-up were normal. After takeoff, the pilot climbed to 3,000 feet mean sea level on runway heading. Once level, the pilot retarded the throttle to 22-23 inches of manifold pressure. Immediately after, the engine lost all power. The electric boost pump was activated but did not restore power, and the fuel pressure gauge showed no pressure. The flight instructor assumed control, established best glide speed, and selected a field for a forced landing. After touchdown, the aircraft struck an embankment before stopping on a dirt road. Both occupants exited and were met by first responders.
Wreckage Examination
An FAA inspector examined the wreckage and noted structural damage to the wings and engine firewall. One propeller blade was straight; the other was bent aft. Engine examination found no evidence of mechanical failure or anomaly: internal continuity was confirmed, compression and suction were observed on all cylinders with correct valve action, and adequate oil was present. All fuel tanks contained sufficient fuel. Examination of the fuel selector valve revealed that it was stuck in the partially closed position, restricting fuel flow to the engine. Moving the tank selector handle did not open the valve.
Conclusion
The total loss of engine power resulted from the stuck fuel selector valve. No other anomalies were found.