Casualties unknown

Engine Sputter Forces Emergency Landing in Field, No Mechanical Failure Found (N7825P)

Forest Hill, MD, US

On June 18, 1994, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N7825P) operated by Douglas Jones was involved in an aviation accident near Forest Hill, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DURING FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. 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

During climb out at 1200 feet MSL, the engine began to sputter. The pilot attempted troubleshooting but was unable to restore power, leading to a forced landing in a field where the aircraft struck a fence. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical malfunction.

Accident Summary

According to the pilot, the aircraft was climbing out at an altitude of 1,200 feet above mean sea level when the engine began to sputter. The pilot attempted to rectify the situation by switching fuel tanks, checking the magnetos, and turning on the electric fuel pump, but these actions were unsuccessful. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot attempted to return to the departure airport. However, due to insufficient altitude, a forced landing was made in a field. During the landing, the airplane struck a fence.

Investigation Details

Following the accident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the aircraft. The inspection disclosed no evidence of mechanical malfunction. The exact cause of the engine sputter was not determined.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01467. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.