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Casualties unknown

Cowl Latch Failure Leads to Forced Landing After Engine Cowling Opens in Flight (N4439T)

Midlothian, TX, US

On April 8, 1993, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N4439T) operated by Williams, Kenneth W. was involved in an aviation accident near Midlothian, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE ENGINE COWLING LATCH RESULTING IN DETERIORATING AIRPLANE PERFORMANCE AND A FORCED LANDING. 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

During climb, a cowling latch failed, causing the cowling to open against the windshield. The pilot, with reduced visibility and excessive drag, could not reach the runway and landed in a field, collapsing the landing gear.

Incident Overview

During climbout, the engine cowling latch failed. The cowling opened and came to rest against the windshield. This blocked the pilot's forward view and acted as a flat plate, generating drag that could not be overcome with full power. The maximum airspeed achievable with full power was no more than 70 knots, and the sink rate developed to approximately 1,000 feet per minute.

Landing

Unable to make the desired runway because of the reduced performance, the pilot landed in an adjacent field. Upon landing, the landing gear collapsed.

Cowling Latch Findings

Examination revealed that the left front latch had failed. Subsequently, the right front latch came open.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Apr 1993 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Midlothian, TX?

During climb, a cowling latch failed, causing the cowling to open against the windshield. The pilot, with reduced visibility and excessive drag, could not reach the runway and landed in a field, collapsing the landing gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Apr 1993 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N4439T, operated by Williams, Kenneth W., at Midlothian, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE ENGINE COWLING LATCH RESULTING IN DETERIORATING AIRPLANE PERFORMANCE AND A FORCED LANDING.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12135. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.