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Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss and Stall During Initial Climb (N25881)

New Gloucester, ME, US

On March 19, 1993, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N25881) operated by David E. Clark was involved in an aviation accident near New Gloucester, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DURING TAKEOFF DUE TO UNDETERMINED REASONS, AND FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED, WHICH RESULTED IN AN INADVERTENT STALL. 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 initial climb after takeoff, the engine quit completely and the airplane stalled, impacting snow-covered terrain about 1500 feet from the airstrip. No mechanical malfunctions were reported or found.

Accident Sequence

Shortly after takeoff, during the initial climb, the engine experienced a complete power loss. The pilot reported that the engine "quit completely" and subsequently the airplane's wings stalled. The aircraft then descended and impacted snow-covered terrain approximately 1500 feet from the airstrip.

Investigation Findings

Inspection of the wreckage did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions that would have been related to the loss of engine power. The pilot did not report any mechanical issues prior to the incident. Additionally, fuel was present in the airplane at the time of the accident.

Engine failureAerodynamic stall

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11926. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.