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Magneto Failure Leads to Engine Loss and Collision on Grand Canyon Sightseeing Flight (N4113R)

Sedona, AZ, US

On October 16, 1988, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N4113R) operated by Northern Arizona Aircraft was involved in an aviation accident near Sedona, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Internal failure of the left magneto resulting from noncompliance with Airworthiness Directive 78-09-07 R3. 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

An aerial sightseeing flight to Grand Canyon National Park crashed after total engine power loss caused by left magneto internal failure. The magneto was not in compliance with an airworthiness directive, and the mechanic acknowledged failing to follow correct maintenance procedures.

Accident Details

An air taxi flight carrying a pilot and four fare-paying passengers was en route to the Grand Canyon National Park for aerial sightseeing when a total loss of engine power occurred. The loss was attributed to an internal failure of the left magneto. The aircraft subsequently collided with terrain and was destroyed by ground fire.

Maintenance Findings

The magneto was subject to Airworthiness Directive (AD) 78-09-07 R3, which addressed impulse coupling failure. Examination revealed that the magneto was not in compliance with the AD. The air taxi company had two employees: an owner who also served as president and pilot, and a director of maintenance who also acted as mechanic. The mechanic acknowledged that he failed to follow the correct guideline in the correct AD.

Failure Mechanism

As a result of the noncompliance, the impulse coupling jammed when the clearance between the flyweight and the stop pin became zero. This action sheared off teeth on the engine's crankshaft gear and the dowel pin.

Probable cause

Internal failure of the left magneto resulting from noncompliance with Airworthiness Directive 78-09-07 R3.

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Piper PA-32 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Oct 1988 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Sedona, AZ?

An aerial sightseeing flight to Grand Canyon National Park crashed after total engine power loss caused by left magneto internal failure. The magneto was not in compliance with an airworthiness directive, and the mechanic acknowledged failing to follow correct maintenance procedures.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Oct 1988 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N4113R, operated by Northern Arizona Aircraft, at Sedona, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Internal failure of the left magneto resulting from noncompliance with Airworthiness Directive 78-09-07 R3.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27078. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.