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Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Collapse After In-Flight Power Loss (N4539X)

Jacksonville, FL, US

On August 15, 1986, a Piper PA28-151 (registration N4539X) operated by Northeast Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Jacksonville, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The specific cause of the initial engine sputtering and power loss could not be determined as the engine functioned correctly during post-accident testing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced engine sputtering and power loss shortly after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing on the grass adjacent to the runway and subsequent nose gear collapse.

What happened

Shortly after departing, the pilot reported that the engine began to sputter and subsequently lost power. Unable to maintain altitude or continue the climb, the pilot executed an emergency landing in the grass located to the right of Runway 31. The aircraft rolled approximately 100 yards across the turf before striking a signpost. Upon impact with the sign, the aircraft veered sharply to the left and entered soft dirt, which caused the nose gear to collapse.

The investigation

Following the incident, a thorough post-crash examination of the airframe was conducted to assess the extent of the damage. To determine if a mechanical failure had caused the in-flight power loss, a complete engine runup was performed on the ground. This test revealed that the engine operated normally at all power settings with no discrepancies noted during the inspection.

Probable cause

The specific cause of the initial engine sputtering and power loss could not be determined as the engine functioned correctly during post-accident testing.
Engine failure

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Aug 1986 Piper PA28-151 accident near Jacksonville, FL?

An aircraft experienced engine sputtering and power loss shortly after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing on the grass adjacent to the runway and subsequent nose gear collapse.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Aug 1986 involved a Piper PA28-151, registration N4539X, operated by Northeast Aviation, at Jacksonville, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The specific cause of the initial engine sputtering and power loss could not be determined as the engine functioned correctly during post-accident testing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34553. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.