Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Performs Forced Landing After Engine Failure on Touch-and-Go (N6904B)

Elkins, WV, US

On June 1, 1991, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N6904B) operated by Allen D Chenoweth was involved in an aviation accident near Elkins, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a third touch-and-go landing practice, a student pilot experienced an unexpected engine stoppage, performed a gliding turn, and landed in an open area, where the aircraft struck a fence post and came to rest inverted.

Incident Overview

A student pilot had completed two practice touch-and-go landings on runway 32 and had just lifted off for a third when the engine unexpectedly stopped running. The pilot quickly checked the fuel gauges, magneto switch, and switched the fuel tank selector, but these actions did not restore engine power.

Emergency Maneuver

Assessing the terrain straight ahead as unsuitable for landing, the pilot elected to make a 100-degree gliding left turn. He landed the aircraft in an open area. After a ground roll of approximately 200 feet, the aircraft struck a fence post. The impact caused the aircraft to tip onto its nose and subsequently come to a stop inverted.

Pilot Actions

The student pilot's immediate responses included verifying fuel quantity, checking the ignition system via the magneto switch, and attempting to select an alternate fuel tank. None of these actions resulted in engine restart. The decision to turn left was based on the unsuitability of the terrain directly ahead.

Aircraft Condition

The aircraft came to rest in an inverted position after striking a fence post. No further details about damage or occupant status are available from the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16932. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.