Casualties unknown

1992-05-23: Piper PA-12-150 (N7869H) — Donald Barber — Birchwood, AK

Birchwood, AK, US

On May 23, 1992, a Piper PA-12-150 (registration N7869H) operated by Donald Barber was involved in an aviation accident near Birchwood, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR RELATING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S INTENTIONAL GROUND LOOP. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During touch-and-go landing practice, the engine lost power at 50 feet. The pilot landed on the overrun and ground looped to avoid a fence. Examination found no mechanical issues; the fuel appeared to be automotive fuel.

Incident Overview

A pilot was practicing touch-and-go landings. During the takeoff phase of a touch-and-go, at approximately 50 feet above the runway, the engine ceased producing power. The pilot executed a landing on the overrun and intentionally ground looped the airplane to avoid striking the airport boundary fence.

Examination Findings

Following the incident, an examination of the airplane was conducted. The inspection revealed no mechanical malfunction of the engine, its systems, fuel system, or electrical system. The airplane was using a clear fuel that, upon inspection, looked and smelled like automotive fuel. No other anomalies were noted in the examination.

Conclusion

The investigation did not identify a mechanical cause for the power loss. The fuel in use was observed to have characteristics consistent with automotive fuel, but the source does not state that this was the cause of the power loss. No other contributing factors were specified.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14547. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.