Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss and Wing Strike During Forced Landing (N56311)

Schaumburg, IL, US

On November 5, 1982, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N56311) operated by C.rauccijr/t.zener was involved in an aviation accident near Schaumburg, IL. 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 a checkout flight of a newly delivered aircraft, the engine lost power at 75 ft AGL. The pilot executed a forced landing in a bean field, and the right wing struck a street sign. No engine discrepancies were found; carburetor ice was suspected but unverified.

Introduction

A recently purchased aircraft had just been delivered when the pilot chose to conduct a brief flight to verify its operation.

Flight Details

The pilot performed one takeoff and landing, then initiated a second takeoff. During the second takeoff, at approximately 75 feet above ground level (AGL), the engine lost power. The pilot maneuvered to land in a bean field, but while crossing a road, the right wing struck a street sign.

Examination

An examination of the engine revealed no discrepancies. The pilot reported that he had not used carburetor heat during ground operation. He believed the engine power loss was due to carburetor ice; however, this theory was not verified.

Conclusion

The incident involved a power loss at low altitude leading to a forced landing with a wing strike. No probable cause was determined from the available information.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Nov 1982 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Schaumburg, IL?

During a checkout flight of a newly delivered aircraft, the engine lost power at 75 ft AGL. The pilot executed a forced landing in a bean field, and the right wing struck a street sign. No engine discrepancies were found; carburetor ice was suspected but unverified.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Nov 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N56311, operated by C.rauccijr/t.zener, at Schaumburg, IL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04465. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.