Casualties unknown

Go-Around Attempt Ends with Nosed-Over Landing in Snow (N9975Q)

No. Andover, MA, US

On December 27, 1989, a Piper PA-18-135 (registration N9975Q) operated by George W. Joyner was involved in an aviation accident near No. Andover, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT INADVERTENTLY TURNED OFF THE MAGNETO SWITCH DURING A GO-AROUND, RESULTING IN A LOSS OF POWER. ALSO CAUSAL TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT OF A SECOND AIRPLANE TO RESPOND TO THE TOWER CONTROLLER'S INSTRUCTIONS. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach, pilot of N9975Q was instructed to go around due to another aircraft ignoring tower. After applying full throttle and closing carb heat, engine sputtered and quit. Emergency landing in snow-covered grass resulted in nose-over; magneto switch found off.

Approach and Go-Around

On final approach, the pilot of N9975Q received instructions from the tower to execute a go-around because another aircraft on the runway had failed to respond to tower communications. The pilot reported applying full throttle and closing the carburetor heat, at which point the engine sputtered and ceased operation.

Emergency Landing

As the pilot attempted to perform an emergency landing, the non-responsive aircraft remained on the runway, still ignoring tower instructions. To avoid a collision, the pilot banked left and touched down on snow-covered grass. During the landing, the airplane nosed over.

Post-Accident Investigation

A post-accident examination of the engine revealed no mechanical discrepancies. However, investigators noted that the magneto switch was found in the OFF position.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30009. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.