Casualties unknown

Commercial Flight Training Incident Results in Lake Landing (N32887)

Devils Lake, ND, US

On October 31, 1987, a Piper J5A (registration N32887) operated by Jackson, Carl F. was involved in an aviation accident near Devils Lake, ND. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot lost engine power during a training maneuver over a waterfowl production lake, resulting in an emergency landing with no mechanical failures found.

What happened

A commercial pilot was conducting flight instruction for another individual holding a commercial pilot certificate and a certified flight instructor (CFI) rating. Witnesses on the ground observed the aircraft flying at an altitude of approximately 100 feet over a waterfowl production lake. During the maneuver, which involved a turn followed by a pull-up, the engine lost power. The pilot subsequently executed an emergency landing in the lake.

The investigation

Following the incident, investigators examined the aircraft to determine the cause of the power loss. No preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures were found during the examination.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Oct 1987 Piper J5A accident near Devils Lake, ND?

A commercial pilot lost engine power during a training maneuver over a waterfowl production lake, resulting in an emergency landing with no mechanical failures found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Oct 1987 involved a Piper J5A, registration N32887, operated by Jackson, Carl F., at Devils Lake, ND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32310. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.