Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Loses Engine Power on Final Approach, Aircraft Impacts Sloping Terrain (N2234L)

Waterville, ME, US

On February 17, 1985, a Beech A23A (registration N2234L) was involved in an aviation accident near Waterville, ME. 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 student pilot with 10.7 total hours, accompanied by a private pilot passenger, experienced an engine power loss on final approach to runway 23 and impacted sloping terrain before reaching the runway. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was verified.

Accident Description

The accident occurred when a student pilot, who was also the owner of the aircraft, was on final approach to runway 23. The student pilot reported that the engine lost power during the approach. Subsequently, the aircraft struck sloping terrain short of the runway. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was identified during the investigation.

Pilot Information

The student pilot had accrued a total of 10.7 flight hours, of which 8.1 hours were dual instruction. A private pilot occupied the right front seat and was reportedly aboard as a passenger.

Investigation Findings

Investigators examined the aircraft and found no evidence of any part failure or malfunction prior to impact. The cause of the reported engine power loss was not determined based on the available evidence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Feb 1985 Beech A23A accident near Waterville, ME?

A student pilot with 10.7 total hours, accompanied by a private pilot passenger, experienced an engine power loss on final approach to runway 23 and impacted sloping terrain before reaching the runway. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was verified.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Feb 1985 involved a Beech A23A, registration N2234L, at Waterville, ME.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35782. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.