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Engine Failure After Throttle Reduction Leads to Collision with Trees (N8895E)

Omaha, NE, US

On December 12, 1985, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N8895E) operated by Millard Air, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Omaha, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the crankshaft drive gear, resulting in loss of all engine accessories. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

The aircraft lost engine power after takeoff when the pilot reduced throttle for climb. Forced landing attempt resulted in collision with trees. Investigation found broken crankshaft drive gear teeth.

Accident Sequence

Approximately 15 minutes after takeoff, the aircraft was climbing through 2,800 feet mean sea level when the pilot retarded the throttle to climb power. At that moment, the engine ceased operation. The pilot selected an open field for a forced landing but, during the approach, the aircraft collided with trees.

Examination Findings

Post-accident examination of the engine revealed four broken teeth on the crankshaft drive gear. The failure of this gear caused the loss of all engine-driven accessories, leading to the loss of engine power.

Occupants and Injuries

A medical patient being transported on an unapproved litter—installed in place of the right middle and rear seats—struck the back of the right front seat during the accident and sustained injuries.

Probable cause

Failure of the crankshaft drive gear, resulting in loss of all engine accessories.
Engine failure

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Piper PA-32 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Dec 1985 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Omaha, NE?

The aircraft lost engine power after takeoff when the pilot reduced throttle for climb. Forced landing attempt resulted in collision with trees. Investigation found broken crankshaft drive gear teeth.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Dec 1985 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N8895E, operated by Millard Air, Inc., at Omaha, NE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Failure of the crankshaft drive gear, resulting in loss of all engine accessories.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38469. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.