Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Results in Collision with Airport Hangar (N5123S)

Van Nuys, CA, US

On July 22, 1989, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N5123S) was involved in an aviation accident near Van Nuys, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. 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

An aircraft on its sixth local flight experienced a loss of engine power. While attempting to return to the runway, it struck an airport hangar. The aircraft had 30 gallons of fuel aboard.

Accident Sequence

The aircraft was on its sixth local flight of the day when the pilot reported a loss of engine power. In an attempt to return to the runway, the aircraft collided with an airport hangar.

Aircraft Information

The aircraft reportedly had 30 gallons of fuel on board at the time of the accident.

Investigation

During the investigation, the linkage to the air intake was found to be loose. However, it was not determined whether the linkage was loose prior to the accident or became loose during the crash sequence. The pilot reportedly performed his own maintenance on the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jul 1989 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Van Nuys, CA?

An aircraft on its sixth local flight experienced a loss of engine power. While attempting to return to the runway, it struck an airport hangar. The aircraft had 30 gallons of fuel aboard.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jul 1989 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N5123S, at Van Nuys, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28869. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.