Turning From Base Toward Final, The Engine Sustained A Total Loss Of Engine Power

Location: McKinney, TX Accident Number: CEN21LA193
Date & Time: April 17, 2021, 19:48 Local Registration: N2973R
Aircraft: Piper PA28R Injuries: 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

On April 17, 2021, about 1948 central daylight time, a Piper PA-28R-200 airplane, N2973R, sustained substantial damage when it was involved in an accident near McKinney, Texas. The flight instructor and student pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight.

The airplane departed from the Rockwall Municipal Airport (F46), Rockwall, Texas, at 1934 and was flying in the traffic pattern at the McKinney National Airport (TKI), McKinney, Texas. 

While turning from base toward final, the engine sustained a total loss of engine power. The flight instructor attempted to cycle the throttle and switch fuel tanks, but with no success. The flight instructor noted there were no abnormal noises or shaking emitting from engine, only a loss of power that he thought was more consistent with some type of fuel interruption issue. The propeller continued to spin. The flight instructor made a forced landing to an open grass field with a mayday call to the air traffic control tower.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. A Federal Aviation Administration aviation safety inspector traveled to the accident site to conduct documentation activities. The wreckage was recovered from the accident site for a future examination of the airframe, engine, and propeller.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov