Piper PA-28-140 N6258J accident near Pensacola, Florida

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power during initial climb for reasons that could not be determined because examination of the engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB analysis

During initial climb, as the airplane crossed over a tree line at the end of the runway, both pilots noticed that the engine was producing only partial power. The pilots attempted to return to the departure runway operating on partial engine power; however, the engine sputtered and lost more power. The airplane impacted a swamp before it reached the runway. Examination of the wreckage revealed that adequate fuel remained in both wing fuel tanks. Additionally, examination of the engine and its accessories did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. Comparison of the recorded temperature and dew point to a carburetor icing chart revealed no susceptibility to carburetor ice at the time of the accident.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12LA442 for the full record.