On August 31, 1991, a Piper PA-23-160 (registration N44PG) operated by Gilder, Ralph W. was involved in an aviation accident near Stockbridge, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN FLYING SPEED AFTER EXPERIENCING A PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER. FACTORS IN THIS ACCIDENT WERE, LOOSE CARBURETORS, ANNUAL INSPECTION NOT PERFORMED, AND PILOT'S LACK OF RECENT EXPERIENCE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a go-around climbout, the pilot reported a reduction in right engine power. The airplane stalled and crashed in a nose-low attitude near a home. Examination found carburetor air leaks.
Incident Overview
During the climbout phase of a go-around, the pilot reported a reduction in power from the right engine. The pilot maintained a nose-high attitude, which led to an aerodynamic stall. The airplane subsequently impacted terrain in a nose-low attitude adjacent to a single-family home.
Witness and Wreckage Examination
A witness reported hearing reduced engine power but noted that both engines continued to operate. Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed that both carburetors were leaking air between the carburetor bowls and throttle bodies. This condition could affect engine performance.
Maintenance and Pilot Information
The airplane had accumulated only two hours of flight time since its last annual inspection, which occurred on June 20, 1990. The pilot had completed a biennial flight review (BFR) 60 months prior to the accident.
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