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Casualties unknown

Total Power Loss During Downwind Leg Leads to Runway Excursion and Collision with VASI Lights (N83211)

Van Nuys, CA, US

On July 20, 1992, a Piper PA32-301T (registration N83211) operated by Feverhelm Transportation, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Van Nuys, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN ON GROUND COLLISION WITH TERRAIN SUBSEQUENT TO AN ENGINE FAILURE FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While on the downwind leg, a pilot experienced a total loss of power. After unsuccessful restart attempts, an emergency landing was made. Upon touchdown, the aircraft could not be aligned with the runway, resulting in a runway excursion and collision with visual approach slope indicator lights. Subsequent engine examination found no preexisting malfunctions; the cause of the power loss remains undetermined.

Accident Summary

The pilot reported a total loss of engine power while on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern. The pilot attempted to restart the engine using standard procedures but was unsuccessful. An emergency landing was initiated targeting the runway.

Emergency Landing and Runway Excursion

To reach the runway, the pilot angled the aircraft toward it. After touchdown, the pilot was unable to align the aircraft with the runway centerline. The aircraft exited the runway and struck the visual approach slope indicator (VASI) lights before coming to a stop.

Post-Accident Examination

Shortly after the accident, the operator ran the engine. The operator could not recall if the fuel selector valve was properly positioned to a fuel tank. A subsequent detailed examination of the engine revealed no evidence of any preexisting malfunctions or failures.

Investigation Outcome

The event was initially classified as an incident. The investigation was unable to determine the cause of the total loss of power.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jul 1992 Piper PA32-301T accident near Van Nuys, CA?

While on the downwind leg, a pilot experienced a total loss of power. After unsuccessful restart attempts, an emergency landing was made. Upon touchdown, the aircraft could not be aligned with the runway, resulting in a runway excursion and collision with visual approach slope indicator lights. Subsequent engine…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jul 1992 involved a Piper PA32-301T, registration N83211, operated by Feverhelm Transportation, Inc, at Van Nuys, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

AN ON GROUND COLLISION WITH TERRAIN SUBSEQUENT TO AN ENGINE FAILURE FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15202. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.