Accident Overview
On December 26, 2022, at approximately 1022 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-28-151, registration N1867H, was substantially damaged when it made a forced landing shortly after takeoff from Lee County Airport (ANP) in Annapolis, Maryland. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported performing a normal preflight inspection and engine run-up in accordance with the airplane's checklist. After departure, he monitored airspeed to retract the flaps at 70 knots. At an altitude of about 500 feet above ground level, he observed the airspeed decreasing below 60 knots without any change in pitch attitude. The pilot suspected a loss of engine power, noting no unusual vibrations or noise. He lowered the nose to maintain airspeed and performed a forced landing to a partially frozen creek. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the airframe, left wing, and an engine mount. The airplane sank and was later recovered.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the engine was conducted. Investigators removed the spark plugs and manually rotated the undamaged two-bladed propeller. Compression and valvetrain continuity were verified on each cylinder, and normal firing of both magneto impulse couplings was observed. A magneto test box was connected to check the magneto 'P' lead connections. The ignition key switch system was tested to ensure proper grounding in the off position and correct operation through the right, left, and both magneto positions. The magneto-to-engine timing was within normal range with the expected right-to-left offset.
Both fuel tanks were intact and half-full of fuel. When the carburetor drain plug was removed, the fuel sample primarily contained water with no other contaminants. The firewall drain sump was destroyed during impact. Weather conditions at the time of the accident were not conducive to carburetor icing. The examination revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal engine operation.