Casualties unknown

Partial Power Loss During Takeoff Leads to Collision with Taxiway (N8904W)

Tulsa, OK, US

On March 26, 1982, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N8904W) operated by Air Tulsa, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Tulsa, OK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, an aircraft experienced partial power loss at about 150 ft AGL. The pilot turned left to land on a taxiway, but the aircraft developed a high sink rate and struck the taxiway nose-down, left-wing-down.

Incident

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft experienced a partial loss of engine power after reaching an altitude of approximately 150 feet above ground level (AGL). In response, the pilot initiated a left turn with the intention of landing on a perpendicular taxiway. However, during the turn, the aircraft developed a high rate of descent and subsequently struck the taxiway surface. The impact occurred with the aircraft in a nose-down and left-wing-down attitude.

Investigation

Post-accident examination of the aircraft's fuel system revealed a blockage in the right main tank inlet leading to the fuel selector valve. The obstruction was identified as a partial blockage caused by tank sealant compound. This condition likely restricted fuel flow to the engine, contributing to the partial power loss experienced during the takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Mar 1982 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Tulsa, OK?

During takeoff, an aircraft experienced partial power loss at about 150 ft AGL. The pilot turned left to land on a taxiway, but the aircraft developed a high sink rate and struck the taxiway nose-down, left-wing-down.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Mar 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N8904W, operated by Air Tulsa, Inc., at Tulsa, OK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02053. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.