Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Leads to Forced Landing in Snowy Field (N41422)

Monticello, ME, US

On March 22, 1993, a Piper PA-28-151 (registration N41422) operated by Kenneth J Winiarski Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Monticello, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A disconnection of the line fitting in the fuel line leading to the fuel selector valve. 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

A pilot reported an engine power loss after noticing a fuel smell, leading to a forced landing in deep snow. Post-accident examination found a disconnected fuel line fitting.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, the flight was cruising at 1300 feet above the ground when the engine lost power. Prior to the loss of power, the pilot noticed the smell of fuel. Attempts to restart the engine using emergency procedures were unsuccessful.

Forced Landing

A forced landing was made in a field covered with approximately 5 to 6 feet of snow. During the landing, the airplane impacted the side of a steep hill, which separated the left main landing gear and twisted the left wing.

Examination Findings

Examination of the fuel system revealed a disconnection of the line fitting in the fuel line leading to the fuel selector valve.

Probable cause

A disconnection of the line fitting in the fuel line leading to the fuel selector valve.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Mar 1993 Piper PA-28-151 accident near Monticello, ME?

A pilot reported an engine power loss after noticing a fuel smell, leading to a forced landing in deep snow. Post-accident examination found a disconnected fuel line fitting.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Mar 1993 involved a Piper PA-28-151, registration N41422, operated by Kenneth J Winiarski Jr., at Monticello, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A disconnection of the line fitting in the fuel line leading to the fuel selector valve.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11929. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.