Casualties unknown

Engine Unresponsive During Stall Recovery; Forced Landing Ends with Wing Striking Tree (N7388J)

Davant, LA, US

On February 25, 1991, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N7388J) operated by Harold Butchart was involved in an aviation accident near Davant, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE POWER LOSS FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. 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 a slow flight to landing stall demonstration at 2,500 feet, the engine did not respond to throttle increase. The instructor performed a forced landing; on short final, the wing clipped a tree. No engine anomalies found.

Introduction

An instructional flight involving a student and instructor pilot experienced an unexpected engine unresponsiveness during a slow flight to landing stall demonstration. The event resulted in a forced landing and subsequent collision with a tree.

Incident Description

The student pilot was demonstrating a slow flight to landing stall maneuver at 2,500 feet above ground level. During the recovery phase, the student pilot increased the throttle, but the engine did not respond. The instructor pilot then took control of the aircraft and elected to perform a forced landing. On short final approach to an open field, the airplane's wing clipped a tree.

Post-Accident Inspection

Following the incident, an inspection of the engine was conducted. The examination revealed no anomalies that could have caused the partial loss of engine power. No further details regarding the engine or aircraft condition were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Feb 1991 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Davant, LA?

During a slow flight to landing stall demonstration at 2,500 feet, the engine did not respond to throttle increase. The instructor performed a forced landing; on short final, the wing clipped a tree. No engine anomalies found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Feb 1991 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N7388J, operated by Harold Butchart, at Davant, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE POWER LOSS FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16453. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.