PIPER PA-28-151

Full Narrative

On August 9, 2025, about 0033 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-28-151, N1080H, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), Chamblee, Georgia. The flight instructor and student pilot were seriously injured, and a passenger received minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight.
According to the flight instructor, the purpose of the flight was to conduct the student pilot’s night cross-country training. The flight instructor reported that the airplane’s fuel level was “above the tabs” prior to departure, and based on his flight planning, he assumed 34 gallons total onboard, which he estimated would provide a 3-hour endurance with reserves. The student pilot also recalled that the fuel level was at the tabs before departure.
The flight departed PDK and flew to Richard B. Russell Regional Airport (RMG), Rome, Georgia, where the student pilot completed five full-stop landings before returning to PDK. The flight instructor stated the flight entered the PDK traffic pattern and performed three landings and two go-arounds. During the final go-around, when the airplane was about 300 to 400 ft above ground level, the engine “abruptly” lost power. The flight instructor took control of the airplane and directed the student to switch fuel tanks. The flight instructor heard a brief “cough” from the engine, but power was not restored. He identified a clear area leading to a road and attempted an off-airport landing.
During the descent, the airplane struck powerlines and then a tree before coming to rest.
A review of fueling records revealed that the airplane was last fueled on August 6, 2025, following the final flight of that day.
The airplane was recovered for further examination.