Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Approach Leads to Emergency Landing in Field (N4616R)

Berryville, AR, US

On October 22, 1991, a Piper PA-28 (registration N4616R) operated by Snider, Richard D. was involved in an aviation accident near Berryville, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A POWER LOSS FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. FACTORS WERE: INCORRECT FUEL, IMPROPER MAINTENANCE, AND INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE INSPECTION INTERVAL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During approach, the aircraft's engine lost power, prompting an emergency landing in a field where it came to rest in a ditch. Investigation revealed the pilot was uncertified, the aircraft used incorrect fuel, had a non-standard engine, and lacked a recent annual inspection.

Incident Details

During the approach phase, the aircraft's engine lost power. The pilot subsequently executed an emergency landing in a field. Upon touchdown, the aircraft rolled into a ditch and came to rest.

Investigation Findings

Investigators examined the aircraft and pilot records. It was discovered that the pilot did not hold a valid pilot certificate and lacked a required medical certificate. The aircraft itself exhibited several discrepancies: it was operating with incorrect fuel, the engine was non-standard, and the mandatory annual inspection had not been performed for six years. No mechanical malfunction was identified that could explain the power loss.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Oct 1991 Piper PA-28 accident near Berryville, AR?

During approach, the aircraft's engine lost power, prompting an emergency landing in a field where it came to rest in a ditch. Investigation revealed the pilot was uncertified, the aircraft used incorrect fuel, had a non-standard engine, and lacked a recent annual inspection.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Oct 1991 involved a Piper PA-28, registration N4616R, operated by Snider, Richard D., at Berryville, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A POWER LOSS FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. FACTORS WERE: INCORRECT FUEL, IMPROPER MAINTENANCE, AND INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE INSPECTION INTERVAL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18285. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.