Casualties unknown

1993-07-06: Piper PA-28-181 (N3837N) — Air Desert Pacific — Columbia, CA

Columbia, CA, US

On July 6, 1993, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N3837N) operated by Air Desert Pacific was involved in an aviation accident near Columbia, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 15 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a go-around, the engine sputtered and quit. The pilot attempted a forced landing on a road but struck telephone wires. No mechanical discrepancies were found; light carburetor icing was possible.

Flight and Go-Around

The pilot had filled both fuel tanks before departure and arrived at the destination after three hours, with an estimated two hours of fuel remaining. On final approach, the pilot was high and elected to perform a go-around. He applied full power, established a positive rate of climb, and retracted the flaps.

Engine Failure

While still on the upwind leg, the engine sputtered. One to two seconds later, it sputtered again and then quit completely.

Forced Landing Attempt

The pilot attempted to land on a road after a descending left turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft collided with telephone wires. Both fuel tanks were damaged in the impact sequence, and all fuel was lost.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the aircraft and engine revealed no discrepancies. After minor installation repairs, the engine was successfully test run.

Weather Considerations

Temperature and dew point information from three nearby locations indicated, according to an icing probability chart, a possibility of light carburetor icing in glide conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12944. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.