On May 26, 1992, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3558M) operated by Peter D. Hickey was involved in an aviation accident near Port Heiden, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A total loss of engine power during cruise flight without warning, for which the cause could not be determined after teardown and testing of the engine and accessories revealed no causal mechanical issues. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During cruise flight, the pilot experienced a total loss of engine power without warning, leading to an off-airport forced landing that caused substantial damage to the aircraft.
What happened
While conducting cruise flight, the pilot reported experiencing a sudden and complete loss of engine power. The event occurred without any prior warnings or indications of impending failure. Following the power loss, the pilot initiated an off-airport forced landing procedure.
The landing resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. No further details regarding injuries or specific location were provided in the source text.
The investigation
A teardown and testing of the engine and its accessories was conducted to determine the root cause of the power loss. The examination revealed no mechanical problems that were considered causal to the loss of engine power during the flight phase.
Probable cause
A total loss of engine power during cruise flight without warning, for which the cause could not be determined after teardown and testing of the engine and accessories revealed no causal mechanical issues.
What happened in the 26 May 1992 Piper PA-12 accident near Port Heiden, AK?
During cruise flight, the pilot experienced a total loss of engine power without warning, leading to an off-airport forced landing that caused substantial damage to the aircraft.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 May 1992 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N3558M, operated by Peter D. Hickey, at Port Heiden, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A total loss of engine power during cruise flight without warning, for which the cause could not be determined after teardown and testing of the engine and accessories revealed no causal mechanical issues.
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