Accident Overview
On March 26, 2026, at approximately 0720 central daylight time, a Piper PA28-140 airplane, registration N1653J, was substantially damaged during an accident near Atlanta, Texas. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured.
Sequence of Events
According to preliminary information from the pilot, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power during the initial climb while still over the runway. The pilot elected to land straight ahead, touching down just past the runway in a grassy area. During the landing rollout, the airplane collided with the airport’s perimeter chain-link fence, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector responded to the accident site. Fuel was present in both wing tanks. Sumped fuel from the tanks showed no evidence of water contamination. The airplane had recently been refueled, and a sample from the airport’s fuel supply also showed no evidence of contamination. The airplane was retained for further examination.
Damage
The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage due to the impact with the fence. No other damage was reported.