AAIB investigation to Piper PA-28R-201T, G-BEOH

Power loss after takeoff resulting in tree strikes, Gloucestershire Airport, 21 July 2014.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: General aviation - fixed wing
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 21 July 2014
• Aircraft type: Piper PA-28R-201T
• Location: Gloucestershire Airport
• Registration: G-BEOH

Summary:

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reduced to a climb power setting, but sensed a much greater reduction in actual power. The aircraft began to sink and the pilot selected full power. He also changed fuel tanks. The aircraft struck tree tops in two locations before the pilot was able to climb away. The aircraft joined the visual circuit and landed without further incident. A technical investigation identified a distorted fuel gascolator upper housing, which was believed to have had the effect of allowing air to be ingested into the fuel system during takeoff.

Download report:

Piper PA-28R-201T G-BEOH 10-14.pdf

Published 10 December 2014