Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Go-Around Leads to Off-Airport Landing (N4315J)

Wellsville, KS, US

On April 23, 1989, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N4315J) operated by Wilson, Charles G. was involved in an aviation accident near Wellsville, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO USE CARBURETOR HEAT DURING THE DESCENT FOR LANDING WHICH RESULTED IN A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AT A CRITICAL TIME IN FLIGHT, A GO-AROUND. 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

A pilot experienced engine power loss during a go-around after a downwind approach. The aircraft impacted in a field 1,056 feet short of the runway. Meteorological conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

Accident Overview

A pilot initiated a go-around after starting a downwind approach to land. During the initial climb of the go-around, the aircraft engine lost power. The pilot attempted to turn back toward the runway for a forced landing, but the aircraft impacted in a field approximately 1,056 feet short of the runway.

Pre-Accident Events

The pilot reported that the engine had quit two times after entering the landing pattern. On both occasions, the pilot was able to restart the engine.

Eyewitness Account

An eyewitness observed the aircraft within thirty feet of his position at an altitude of approximately 2 to 3 feet off the grass runway in a landing attitude.

Meteorological Conditions

Existing meteorological conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

Post-Accident Findings

The engine was successfully run after replacing the carburetor and fuel strainer.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Apr 1989 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Wellsville, KS?

A pilot experienced engine power loss during a go-around after a downwind approach. The aircraft impacted in a field 1,056 feet short of the runway. Meteorological conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Apr 1989 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N4315J, operated by Wilson, Charles G., at Wellsville, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO USE CARBURETOR HEAT DURING THE DESCENT FOR LANDING WHICH RESULTED IN A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AT A CRITICAL TIME IN FLIGHT, A GO-AROUND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28166. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.