Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Touch-and-Go Leads to Tree Strike (N8841D)

Farmington, NM, US

On August 23, 1992, a Piper PA-22-160 (registration N8841D) operated by Stanley, James C. was involved in an aviation accident near Farmington, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO CARBURETOR ICE AND THE PILOT'S DELAYED USE OF CARBURETOR HEAT. A FACTOR WAS UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a touch-and-go, the aircraft experienced a total engine power loss at about 400 feet AGL. The pilot attempted an emergency descent but the airplane struck a tree. Icing conditions were present at glide power.

Accident Details

A pilot was performing touch-and-go landings. After the first touchdown, the pilot added power for takeoff. During the initial climb at approximately 400 feet above ground level (AGL) and about 100 feet beyond the departure end of the runway, a total engine power loss occurred. The pilot initiated an emergency descent toward the runway, but the airplane descended below the runway elevation. The airplane subsequently struck a tree while landing in a wooded area.

Investigation

The temperature was 64 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 57 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in serious icing conditions at glide power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15421. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.