On November 23, 1991, a Piper PA-20 (registration N7304K) operated by Slovenz, Joseph N. was involved in an aviation accident near Hilliard, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO UNDETERMINED REASONS AND UNSUITABLE TERRAIN ENCOUNTERED DURING THE FORCED LANDING. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE LOW CEILING ENCOUNTERED AND REDUCED IN-FLIGHT PLANNING DECISION TIME BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying VFR on top experienced an engine power loss, broke out of clouds, and performed a forced landing. After touchdown, the pilot intentionally ground looped the aircraft to avoid obstructions. An FAA inspection two days later found the engine operated normally; no cause for the power loss was determined.
Incident Overview
A pilot operating under visual flight rules (VFR) on top reported that the engine experienced a loss of power. After descending through clouds, the pilot observed a field and executed a forced landing. Following touchdown, the pilot deliberately ground looped the aircraft to avoid obstructions ahead.
Post-Accident Examination
Two days after the accident, an FAA inspector examined the aircraft. The aircraft was secured, and the engine was started and found to operate normally. No determination could be made as to the reason for the loss of power.
Conclusion
The pilot's actions in performing a forced landing and subsequent ground loop prevented a collision with obstructions. Despite the engine running normally during post-accident testing, the initial power loss remains unexplained.