Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Forces Landing in Field, Aircraft Noses Over (N8898C)

Boring, OR, US

On February 4, 1990, a Piper PA-22 (registration N8898C) operated by Ronald Hargraves was involved in an aviation accident near Boring, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: CARBURETOR ICING, AND THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF CARBURETOR HEAT. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: CARBURETOR ICING CONDITIONS AND THE SOFT/UNEVEN TERRAIN IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA. 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

While on a cross-country flight, the aircraft's engine suddenly lost power. The pilot initiated a forced landing in a plowed field, but the aircraft struck a rut and nosed over. Post-incident testing revealed no engine abnormalities, though conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

Event Description

During a cross-country flight, the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing in a plowed field. Upon touchdown, the aircraft encountered a rut and nosed over.

Post-Incident Inspection

The aircraft was recovered to a facility for engine inspection and preparation for a test run. The engine was started and operated for several minutes at varying power settings with no abnormalities noted. At the time of the incident, the temperature and dew point were 44°F and 32°F, respectively. According to carburetor icing charts, these conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22633. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.