No fatalities

Engine Power Loss During Slow Flight Practice Leads to Emergency Landing (N653AA)

Lindstrom, MN, US

On November 14, 1990, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N653AA) operated by Arrowhead Airways Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Lindstrom, MN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LEFT ENGINE FAILURE FOR AN UNDETERMINED REASON. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. 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

While practicing slow flight, a pilot experienced a left engine power loss and propeller feathering. Unable to restart the engine or maintain altitude, an emergency landing was performed in a soft farm field, resulting in substantial damage. The cause of the power loss was not identified.

Accident Overview

During a slow flight practice maneuver, the pilot reported that the left engine lost power and the propeller went into feather. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful, and the pilot was unable to maintain altitude.

Emergency Landing

An emergency landing was executed in a soft, farm field with the landing gear extended. The landing resulted in substantial damage to the wings, landing gear, and propeller.

Post-Accident Inspection

A post-accident inspection of the airplane and the affected engine did not reveal any underlying reason for the power loss. The exact cause of the engine failure remains undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Nov 1990 Piper PA-23-250 accident near Lindstrom, MN?

While practicing slow flight, a pilot experienced a left engine power loss and propeller feathering. Unable to restart the engine or maintain altitude, an emergency landing was performed in a soft farm field, resulting in substantial damage. The cause of the power loss was not identified.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Nov 1990 Piper PA-23-250 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Nov 1990 involved a Piper PA-23-250, registration N653AA, operated by Arrowhead Airways Inc., at Lindstrom, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

LEFT ENGINE FAILURE FOR AN UNDETERMINED REASON. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: UNSUITABLE TERRAIN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24593. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.