On December 27, 1993, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5894W) operated by Michael J. Lyter was involved in an aviation accident near Little Falls, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: an improper preflight by the pilot-in-command and the pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during a turn. A factor associated with the accident was contaminated fuel. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced an engine stoppage during initial climb after being kept in a heated hangar. During a turn back to the airport, the airplane stalled and collided with the ground. Ice crystals were found in a fuel sample from the right wing tank.
Preflight and Departure
The accident airplane had been stored in a heated hangar due to below-zero outside temperatures. The pilot reported taking fuel samples from the airplane's fuel tank sumps while the airplane was inside the hangar. Shortly after the airplane was removed from the hangar, the pilot taxied out for takeoff.
Engine Failure and Maneuver
During the initial climb, the engine stopped running. The pilot stated that he performed a turn back toward the airport with the intention of landing on a cross runway. While in the turn, the airplane stalled and subsequently collided with the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
An on-scene investigation revealed ice crystals in the fuel sample removed from the right wing's fuel tank.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 27 Dec 1993 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Little Falls, MN?
An airplane experienced an engine stoppage during initial climb after being kept in a heated hangar. During a turn back to the airport, the airplane stalled and collided with the ground. Ice crystals were found in a fuel sample from the right wing tank.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Dec 1993 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5894W, operated by Michael J. Lyter, at Little Falls, MN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
an improper preflight by the pilot-in-command and the pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during a turn. A factor associated with the accident was contaminated fuel.
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