Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Climbing Turn After Glacier Departure (N6574L)

Palmer, AK, US

On January 17, 1994, a Piper PA-18-160 (registration N6574L) operated by Park, Kevin B. was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR IN THE SEVERITY OF THE ACCIDENT WAS THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE WHEN THE ENGINE CEASED PRODUCING POWER. 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

Approximately one minute after departing from a glacier, while performing a shallow climbing right turn at about 200 feet AGL, the engine lost power and the airplane descended out of control.

Incident Overview

Approximately one minute after departing from a glacier, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. At the time, the aircraft was executing a shallow climbing turn to the right at an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level (AGL). Following the power loss, the airplane descended to the ground out of control.

Preflight Actions

Before the takeoff, the pilot was observed performing several checks and preparations. These included inspecting the fuel for contamination, clearing light snow from the wings and tail surfaces, preheating the engine for 50 minutes, and running the engine for 7 minutes.

Sequence of Events

The flight commenced from a glacier surface. The climb and turn proceeded normally until the engine power loss occurred. No further details regarding the aircraft's flight path or the pilot's actions after the power loss are specified in the source.

Post-Accident Observations

The source provides no additional information about the outcome of the descent, such as injuries, damage, or rescue efforts. It solely describes the events leading up to and during the power loss.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00574. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.