Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Power Lines and Trees During Forced Landing After Takeoff (N26005)

Westhampton Bch, NY, US

On May 21, 1985, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N26005) was involved in an aviation accident near Westhampton Bch, NY. 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 forced landing after takeoff, an aircraft struck power lines and trees before coming to rest in a fence. The engine lost power after a ground delay for ATC clearance, and the pilot suspected carburetor icing.

Incident Overview

An aircraft experienced a forced landing after takeoff, during which it struck a power line and trees before coming to rest in a fence. The engine lost power following a 10-minute delay on the ground while waiting for an air traffic control (ATC) clearance due to a military exercise.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that he believed carburetor ice formed during the ground wait for the ATC clearance. After the power loss, which was characterized by a gradual drop in engine RPM, the pilot attempted to use carburetor heat. The pilot stated that during the holding period, he had been idling the engine at 1100 RPM.

Weather Conditions

The ambient temperature at the time was 60 degrees Fahrenheit, with a dew point of 57 degrees Fahrenheit.

Outcome

The aircraft ended up in a fence after contacting the power line and trees. No further details about the aircraft or occupants were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 May 1985 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Westhampton Bch, NY?

During a forced landing after takeoff, an aircraft struck power lines and trees before coming to rest in a fence. The engine lost power after a ground delay for ATC clearance, and the pilot suspected carburetor icing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 May 1985 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N26005, at Westhampton Bch, NY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36574. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.