Casualties unknown

1992-12-26: Champion 7EC (N9891B) — Riley, William K. — Weatherford, TX

Weatherford, TX, US

On December 26, 1992, a Champion 7EC (registration N9891B) operated by Riley, William K. was involved in an aviation accident near Weatherford, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN ENGINE FAILURE FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING WAS A FACTOR. 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

After a low pass, the pilot applied throttle for a go-around but the engine did not respond. He landed straight ahead in a rough wet pasture, applied maximum braking to avoid trees, and the airplane nosed over. Carburetor icing was predicted at certain power settings, but no cause for the power loss was determined.

Sequence of Events

During a flight at a private airstrip, the pilot performed a low pass down the runway. After the pass, he applied throttle to execute a go-around, but the engine did not respond. Unable to maintain or regain power, the pilot landed straight ahead in a rough wet pasture. During the landing roll, he had to apply maximum braking to avoid a tree line, and subsequently the airplane nosed over.

Carburetor Icing Considerations

According to the pilot, carburetor heat was used during the flight. However, the length of time and degree of application were not reported. Icing probability charts predicted carburetor icing at glide and cruise power settings, but no determination was made that icing caused the power loss.

Investigation Outcome

Despite examining the available information, the investigation could not determine a cause for the engine's failure to respond when throttle was applied for the go-around. No specific mechanical or environmental factor was identified as the reason for the power loss.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X16163. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.