No fatalities

2005-06-30: Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (N4200N) — Max Pack — Fort Payne, United States of America

Fort Payne, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On June 30, 2005, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration N4200N) operated by Max Pack was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Payne, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power due to the failure of the aft clamp connecting the turbocharger compressor outlet to the intercooler ducting which resulted in reduced aircraft performance during takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781199498Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after liftoff, a right engine power loss caused a roll. The pilot's attempt to arrest the roll failed, and the aircraft cartwheeled, coming to rest on its belly and catching fire. Both occupants were slightly injured.

Accident Overview

Shortly after liftoff, at an altitude of about 20 feet above the ground, the pilot noted a drop in the right engine manifold pressure. The aircraft began a right roll; the pilot's efforts to arrest the roll were unsuccessful. The pilot then decided to return the aircraft to the ground. During this maneuver, the right wing struck the ground, causing the aircraft to cartwheel. It came to rest on its belly and burst into flames.

Wreckage Examination

Examination of the wreckage site revealed the aircraft was located approximately 200 feet northwest of the runway 22 centerline. The left fuel tank was ruptured, and the left side of the aircraft sustained fire damage. Both occupants suffered minor injuries, and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Findings

The investigation identified the loss of engine power as resulting from the failure of the aft clamp connecting the turbocharger compressor outlet to the intercooler ducting. This failure led to reduced aircraft performance during the takeoff phase.

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to the failure of the aft clamp connecting the turbocharger compressor outlet to the intercooler ducting which resulted in reduced aircraft performance during takeoff.