Piper PA-28-140 N8485R accident near Nacogdoches, Texas

Probable cause

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

NTSB analysis

After an hour of conducting flight maneuvers, the pilot and flight instructor proceeded to do a power-off landing. During the take-off from the runway, the engine lost partial power, and when it appeared that they would not be able to clear trees, they elected to conduct a forced landing. An inspection of the airplane, revealed that during the forced landing the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. After the aircraft was recovered to a hangar an examination/engine run was conducted. During the engine run, the magneto check was "good"; however, when the carburetor heat control was pulled, the engine started to run rough and lose power. The reason for the loss of engine power was not identified.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA055 for the full record.