Probable cause
A total loss of engine power during the initial climb for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot had just departed on a local visual flight rules (VFR) flight when the airplane's engine suddenly lost all power as it was about 100 to 150 feet above ground level. Because of the airplane's low altitude, once the pilot checked the position of the magnetos, fuel selector, and fuel pump, he focused his attention on finding a landing spot in the nearby rough swampy terrain. During the landing, the airplane's wings and fuselage sustained substantial damage. A post-accident teardown inspection of the airframe, fuel system, air induction system, and the engine did not find any evidence of pre-accident anomalies or malfunctions.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09LA169 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 28, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- San Carlos, California
- Nearest airport
- San Carlos (KSQL)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 4
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-28-235
- N-number
- N9249W
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.