Piper PA-28-161 N1449H accident near Atlantic City, New Jersey

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power at takeoff for reasons that could not be determined during a postaccident examination or engine test run.

NTSB analysis

The pilot said that, before departure, he cleared "minor snow accumulation" from the bottom of the engine compartment. The pilot performed the preflight inspection, engine start, taxi, run-up, and before takeoff checks in accordance with the applicable checklists. The engine accelerated normally during the takeoff roll with a "slight hesitation" at 2,200 to 2,300 rpm as the takeoff continued. When the airplane was at 70 knots and over the departure end of the runway, the engine experienced a partial loss of power. Rather than attempt to return to the runway or land straight ahead to wooded terrain, the pilot chose to perform a forced landing to the airport perimeter road. The airplane's left wing struck a tree and a fence and then separated from the airplane, and the airplane then impacted the road and came to rest inverted. Examination of the airplane revealed no preimpact mechanical anomalies, and, during a test run, the engine started immediately, accelerated smoothly, and ran without interruption through several rpm changes. The magnetos were tested and functioned as designed.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA14LA141 for the full record.