Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Go-Around Leads to Collision with House and Tree (N7378V)

Louisville, KY, US

On September 16, 1987, a Bellanca 17-30A (registration N7378V) was involved in an aviation accident near Louisville, KY. 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 the second go-around attempt, the engine failed. The pilot switched fuel tanks but could not restart, resulting in a forced landing collision with a house and tree.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot's report, during an approach to land, the pilot made two attempts to land. During the second go-around, the engine cut out. The pilot stated that he switched from the left fuel tank to the right tank but was unable to restart the engine before executing a forced landing. The forced landing resulted in a collision with a house and a tree.

Pilot's Report on Fuel Management

The pilot's report included operational recommendations regarding fuel tank selection. Specifically, the report stated that takeoffs and landings should be made on the right tank when using left traffic. Additionally, no steep turns should be made into the tank being used. The pilot also noted that fuel was managed to arrive at the destination on the fullest or right tank.

Findings

The report did not provide any further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, engine specifications, date, location, or number of occupants. No information was given about injuries or fatalities. The report solely described the sequence of events as recounted by the pilot.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Sept 1987 Bellanca 17-30A accident near Louisville, KY?

During the second go-around attempt, the engine failed. The pilot switched fuel tanks but could not restart, resulting in a forced landing collision with a house and tree.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Sept 1987 involved a Bellanca 17-30A, registration N7378V, at Louisville, KY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32008. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.