2025-09 · NASA ASRS report 2286036
PA-28 pilots reported an engine malfunction during cruise and could not maintain altitude. The pilots diverted the flight to an alternate airport and landed safely.
While cruising at approximately 3;500 feet MSL; the engine began running rough; causing noticeable vibration and partial power loss. The aircraft was unable to maintain altitude and began descending despite appropriate corrective actions.Actions Taken: - Verified engine instruments and attempted to troubleshoot engine roughness. - Determined nearest suitable airport was out of glide range due to altitude and terrain. - Selected the nearest available runway for an immediate precautionary landing. - Executed a safe landing without incident.Outcome:Aircraft landed safely. No injuries. Aircraft removed from service pending maintenance inspection.Safety Considerations:The timely recognition of engine roughness and power loss; combined with immediate decision-making to divert to the nearest available landing site; prevented further risk. The occurrence highlights the importance of maintaining situational awareness; continuously evaluating glide options; and being prepared to execute off-field or alternate airport landings when engine issues arise.
Partial power loss at 3;500 engine roughness aircraft started shaking and we started losing altitude. Our current location we wouldn't have glide distance to make it to the nearest active field so we landed at the nearest runway due to loss of altitude.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.
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