Casualties unknown

Witnesses Report Stall During Touch and Go Landing Pattern (N6147J)

EL Cajon, CA, US

On October 11, 1990, a Piper PA28-140 (registration N6147J) operated by National Air College was involved in an aviation accident near EL Cajon, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN FLYING SPEED. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS AN ENGINE POWER LOSS 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

During touch and go landings in a closed traffic pattern, witnesses observed the aircraft pitch up during a left turn, then pitch down and descend. Some heard the engine sputter prior. Examination found no evidence of engine or fuel system malfunction.

Incident Details

The pilot was conducting touch and go landings in a closed traffic pattern. After takeoff, the aircraft entered a left turn. During the turn, the nose pitched up, then pitched down, and the aircraft descended into the ground.

Witness Observations

Multiple witnesses observed the sequence of events. They reported that the aircraft's nose pitched up during the turn to the left, followed by a pitch down and descent. Other witnesses heard the engine sputter before the nose pitched up. Most witnesses described the aircraft stalling during the turn.

Post-Accident Examination

A thorough examination of the engine and fuel system was conducted. No physical evidence of a malfunction or failure was found. The examination did not reveal any anomalies that could explain the loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Oct 1990 Piper PA28-140 accident near EL Cajon, CA?

During touch and go landings in a closed traffic pattern, witnesses observed the aircraft pitch up during a left turn, then pitch down and descend. Some heard the engine sputter prior. Examination found no evidence of engine or fuel system malfunction.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Oct 1990 involved a Piper PA28-140, registration N6147J, operated by National Air College, at EL Cajon, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN FLYING SPEED. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS AN ENGINE POWER LOSS FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24474. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.