On October 31, 1982, a Cessna 120 (registration N3177N) operated by Leroy D. Grothans was involved in an aviation accident near Midvale, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an engine power loss and a subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced an engine power loss shortly after takeoff and executed a forced landing in a field near the runway end, resulting in damage to the aircraft's right main gear.
What happened
Shortly after lift-off, the engine lost power. The pilot elected to make a forced landing in a plowed field near the end of the runway. The right main gear failed to clear the barbed-wire perimeter fence. Subsequently, the aircraft touched down in a yaw and crashed. The pilot suspected there was ice in the fuel lines; however, this was not verified. He estimated the temperature was 30 degrees.
Findings
Engine power loss occurred shortly after takeoff.
The aircraft impacted a barbed-wire fence during the forced landing attempt.
Ice in the fuel lines was suspected but not confirmed.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an engine power loss and a subsequent forced landing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 Oct 1982 Cessna 120 accident near Midvale, ID?
A pilot experienced an engine power loss shortly after takeoff and executed a forced landing in a field near the runway end, resulting in damage to the aircraft's right main gear.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Oct 1982 involved a Cessna 120, registration N3177N, operated by Leroy D. Grothans, at Midvale, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an engine power loss and a subsequent forced landing.
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