Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Valley Glide Leads to Forced Landing and Noseover (N7255D)

Ashby, NE, US

On May 11, 1986, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N7255D) was involved in an aviation accident near Ashby, NE. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot and passenger were sightseeing when the engine failed to respond after a glide across a valley. The forced landing in hilly terrain resulted in collision with a fence and the aircraft nosing over. No mechanical reason for the failure was found, and carburetor icing was considered not probable.

Accident Narrative

During a sightseeing flight, a pilot and a passenger were flying when the pilot decided to glide across a valley. He enriched the mixture to full rich, applied carburetor heat, and reduced engine power. As the aircraft crossed the valley, the pilot attempted to level off by advancing the throttle, but the engine failed to respond. With no engine power, the pilot was forced to land in hilly terrain. The aircraft struck a fence during the landing and nosed over, coming to rest on its nose.

Investigation Findings

An inspection of the aircraft after the accident did not reveal any mechanical reason for the engine failure. A carburetor icing probability chart was also evaluated, and it indicated that carburetor icing was not a probable cause. The investigation did not determine any other reason for the engine's lack of response.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33657. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.