Piper PA-28R-200 N56064 accident near West Kingston, Rhode Island

Probable cause

The pilot's misjudgment of speed and altitude while maneuvering to land during an emergency descent. Contributing to the accident was the partial loss of engine power.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated that he was in cruise flight at 3,000 feet when he noted an airframe vibration. When he pushed the throttle full forward, the manifold pressure and engine rpm increased, and the vibration increased. He then leaned the mixture and the vibration seemed to decrease. The airplane would not climb, and started a descent. The pilot selected the nearest airport and proceeded to the airport to make a precautionary landing. The pilot initiated a visual approach to the 2,129-foot long runway. He realized the airplane was high and fast, and he then completed a go-around. He remained in closed traffic and was looking for available forced landing areas. The pilot turned on final approach again, but then he decided to abort the approach and land gear-up in a sod field. Examination of the engine assembly revealed the No. 1 cylinder exhaust valve pushrod would only move .125 inch. The cylinder exhibited heavy carbon build up on the upper and lower spark plugs. No other anomalies were noted.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for MIA08LA159 for the full record.