NTSB Factual Report

On August 24, 2010, approximately 0940 mountain daylight time, a Piper PA-46-350P, N4167A, registered to and operated by a private pilot, was substantially damaged when the engine lost power shortly after takeoff and the airplane struck the runway wheels up at the Greeley-Weld County Airport (GXY), Greeley, Colorado. Visual meteorological conditions (VMC) prevailed at the time of the accident. The personal flight was being conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot, the sole occupant on board the airplane, was not injured. The cross-country flight was originating at the time of the accident and was en route to Broomfield (BJC), Colorado.

According to the pilot's accident report, the airplane had been involved in a previous accident. After repairs were made, the pilot taxied the airplane to a self-service fueling facility where he added 84 gallons of fuel to the 20 gallons already in the tanks. He said he became distracted and forgot to replace the right tank fuel cap. The pilot took off from runway 16, He said he had selected the right fuel tank and the required auxiliary boost pump was on. Approximately 100 feet above the runway, he retracted the landing gear and flaps and the engine lost power. The pilot established a controlled glide back to the runway, but didn't have time to lower the landing gear. The airplane landed wheels-up and skidded off the right side of the runway. Post-accident examination disclosed the pressure vessel had been compromised and could not be pressurized. The right tank fuel cap was later found on the taxiway. No fuel stains were noted on the wing.

On September 2, 2010, the engine was functionally tested at Beegles Aircraft Service in Greeley, Colorado. Various power settings, including full power, were employed. No anomalies were noted.

NTSB Probable Cause

A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.