N6YB

On November 29, 2000, at 0911 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-32-260, N6YB, registered to and operated by Corporate Air Fleet Inc., was substantially damaged when it impacted the ground following a loss of engine power during initial climb after takeoff from Florence Regional Airport in Florence, South Carolina. The commercial pilot, the sole occupant aboard, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight rules flight plan was filed for the business flight being conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 135. The intended destination was Fayetteville Regional/Grannis Field Airport in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

According to the pilot, shortly after departure from runway 19, with a load of cargo on board, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing, impacting hard into a grassy area adjacent to the departure end of runway 19. During the impact sequence, the landing gear was separated and the propeller was bent.

Examination of the engine showed no defects that would have prevented it from producing power. Conditions conducive to carburetor icing existed at the time of the accident. Temperature was 48 degrees and the dewpoint was 39 degrees.