Emergency Landing Following Engine Failure

Casualties unknown • Sanford, NC, US

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a wooded area after the engine stopped during an attempted return to the airport.

What happened

Following takeoff, the pilot experienced rough running of the engine. Because there was no suitable landing area immediately available, the pilot elected to attempt a return to the airport. However, upon completion of the turn, the engine stopped entirely. This failure forced the pilot to execute an emergency landing into a wooded area.

The pilot had attempted this same flight earlier in the day but was forced to return due to similar engine roughness. At that time, maintenance personnel performed work on the engine fuel system, and it was believed that the issue had been resolved.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-10-04 Piper PA-24-260 accident near Sanford, NC?

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a wooded area after the engine stopped during an attempted return to the airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-10-04 involved a Piper PA-24-260, registration N8839P, operated by Whitehead, Jefferson D, at Sanford, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO UNKNOWN REASONS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18236. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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