Casualties unknown

1989-08-06: Piper PA-38-112 (N2424N) — Mills, Lori — Anchorage, AK

Anchorage, AK, US

On August 6, 1989, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2424N) operated by Mills, Lori was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AN UNKNOWN REASON, AND THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED, WHILE TURNING BACK TOWARD THE AIRPORT, WHICH RESULTED IN AN INADVERTENT STALL/SPIN. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot experienced an engine power loss during climb after a touch-and-go landing. The aircraft entered a left turn, stalled, and crashed. Investigators found no preimpact mechanical problems except an unverified primer position and ignition switch damage.

Accident Sequence

A student pilot had just completed her fourth touch-and-go landing and was climbing after takeoff when the engine lost power. The aircraft was observed to enter a left turn, as if to return to the runway, then entered a stall/spin and crashed approximately half a mile west of the airport.

Investigation Findings

No preimpact mechanical problems were found with the airframe or engine. However, the engine primer was found approximately three-quarters of the way out from the locked position. The ignition switch had several electrical contacts broken off and its switch contacts were dirty with carbon deposits. The ignition switch was badly damaged from the impact. Neither the primer nor the ignition switch could be verified as having affected the engine problem.

At the time of the accident, the temperature and dew point were 70°F and 58°F, respectively. According to carburetor icing charts, conditions were conducive for carburetor icing.

Probable Cause

No probable cause was determined based on the available information.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28993. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.