No fatalities

Dual Instructional Flight Experiences Power Loss, Emergency Landing Results in Gear Separation and Minor Injuries (N2389Z)

Shelburne, VT, US

On June 21, 1983, a Beech BE-23 (registration N2389Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Shelburne, VT. No fatalities were reported. 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

A dual instructional flight suffered a power loss during climb, leading to an emergency landing. The aircraft struck a ditch, separating the landing gear. The instructor was uninjured, while the student sustained minor injuries.

Incident Overview

A dual instructional flight experienced a power loss during climb, prompting an emergency landing. The aircraft, while climbing at approximately 200 feet, suffered a power drop of 700-800 RPM. The pilot responded by applying carburetor heat, switching fuel tanks, and turning to avoid a housing area. The aircraft descended to between 50 and 75 feet, at which point power was temporarily regained, allowing a climb back to 200 feet.

Second Power Loss and Emergency Landing

About midfield and while on base leg, a complete power loss occurred. A normal landing was not possible. The pilot turned north and executed a landing in a stall condition. During the landing, the left wing contacted a raised portion of a ditch located on the west side of the runway.

Damage and Injuries

The ground contact separated the landing gear from the aircraft. The instructor pilot was not injured, and the student received minor injuries.

Investigation

The investigation noted the sequence of events as described. No probable cause was stated in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jun 1983 Beech BE-23 accident near Shelburne, VT?

A dual instructional flight suffered a power loss during climb, leading to an emergency landing. The aircraft struck a ditch, separating the landing gear. The instructor was uninjured, while the student sustained minor injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 21 Jun 1983 Beech BE-23 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jun 1983 involved a Beech BE-23, registration N2389Z, at Shelburne, VT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43508. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.