Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Ground After Engine Failure During Traffic Pattern (N11HN)

Romeoville, IL, US

On September 7, 1985, a Globe GC-1B (registration N11HN) was involved in an aviation accident near Romeoville, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Disconnection of the throttle control from the carburetor, resulting in a complete loss of engine power during climbout. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a complete loss of power during climbout in the traffic pattern. Witnesses reported no engine noise before impact. Investigation revealed the throttle control was disconnected from the carburetor.

What happened

The pilot was reportedly departing on an cross-country flight. During the climbout phase within the traffic pattern, the aircraft was observed turning back toward the airport as it reached the base leg area. The aircraft then descended and struck the ground.

Witnesses reported hearing no sound of engine operation prior to the impact. This suggests a sudden cessation of power rather than a gradual loss.

The investigation

Examination of the wreckage revealed that the throttle control was found disconnected from the carburetor. This mechanical failure explains the immediate loss of engine power and the subsequent inability to maintain altitude or return safely to the airport.

No other mechanical anomalies were cited in the provided source text regarding the cause of the disconnection.

Probable cause

Disconnection of the throttle control from the carburetor, resulting in a complete loss of engine power during climbout.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Sept 1985 Globe GC-1B accident near Romeoville, IL?

An aircraft experienced a complete loss of power during climbout in the traffic pattern. Witnesses reported no engine noise before impact. Investigation revealed the throttle control was disconnected from the carburetor.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Sept 1985 involved a Globe GC-1B, registration N11HN, at Romeoville, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Disconnection of the throttle control from the carburetor, resulting in a complete loss of engine power during climbout.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37727. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.