Casualties unknown

Pilot loses power twice during forced landing attempts (N4187B)

Marysville, OH, US

On June 8, 1984, a Bellanca 17-30A (registration N4187B) was involved in an aviation accident near Marysville, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain power, which resulted in a collision with trees during a forced landing flare. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced two separate engine power failures while attempting a forced landing at altitude. The aircraft struck trees during the flare of the second attempt, resulting in a crash with no mechanical defects found.

What happened

The pilot reported that the aircraft experienced a loss of power while en route at an altitude of 7,000 feet mean sea level (MSL). During the subsequent forced landing flare, engine power was temporarily regained. However, the pilot elected to climb rather than land because the selected field was deemed insufficient for a safe stop. At an altitude of 1,500 feet MSL, a second loss of power occurred. The aircraft then collided with trees during the flare phase of the second forced landing attempt.

The investigation

An examination of the wreckage and components revealed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction that would have precluded continued engine operation.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain power, which resulted in a collision with trees during a forced landing flare.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jun 1984 Bellanca 17-30A accident near Marysville, OH?

A pilot experienced two separate engine power failures while attempting a forced landing at altitude. The aircraft struck trees during the flare of the second attempt, resulting in a crash with no mechanical defects found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jun 1984 involved a Bellanca 17-30A, registration N4187B, at Marysville, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inability to maintain power, which resulted in a collision with trees during a forced landing flare.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39849. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.