PA-32 Cherokee Six/Lance/Saratoga/6X
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 28; Flight Crew Total 525; Flight Crew Type 385
Distraction
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Maintenance Action
Human Factors
I landed for fuel; and as a precautionary measure to inspect the engine due to a solitary sound I heard in flight. While all engine indicators and monitors were in the green; I elected the cautious safe action. I removed the cowling with assistance; and replaced it after my inspection showed no abnormalities. After fueling; I preflighted the plane and proceeded to takeoff. Immediately on rotation; the right side of the cowling dislodged; remaining attached to the fuselage by the aft and left connections. My airspeed and altitude dictated insufficient runway remaining to land. I executed a series of turns to establish an approach to the runway; and executed a landing without difficulty. Determining that the cowling sustained damage in the forms of cracks in the fiberglass where it was displaced; I elected no further flight; hangared the plane and took the cowling for repair. Reflecting on the above events; I realize I missed the right two latches not being engaged in my preflight; causing the event. Contributing factors included distraction from my routine by others wishing to assist me. Future corrections will include completing my preflight in a sterile environment cleared of distractions.
The pilot of a Piper PA32 landed for fuel; and as a precaution removed the engine cowling to inspect the engine. Others assisted him in re-installing the cowling; but not having been latched properly; came loose just after takeoff and sustained damage; but did not depart the aircraft. The pilot immediately returned to land; and grounded the aircraft to await the necessary repairs.