Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING WAS A FACTOR.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
On November 9, 1995, about 0850 eastern standard time, N970AC, a Piper PA-28-161 registered to Naples Air Center collided with water near Marco Island, Florida, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged and the pilot reported no injuries. The flight had originated from Naples, Florida, about 20 minutes earlier.
The pilot stated that as he was approaching Marco Island Airport the power smoothly decreased to idle power. He initiated a forced landing to the water and the right wing was damaged as the airplane touched down in about 2 feet of water.
A postaccident inspection found no failures nor malfunctions of the carburetor, magnetos, gears, cams, oil filter, and other engine parts. All parts that were inspected were first dried then tested. The reason for the reported power loss was not determined.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# MIA96LA020