Casualties unknown

Emergency Landing After Engine Vibrations Leads to Landing Gear Collapse (N47WH)

Cumming, GA, US

On May 8, 1995, a Kolb Company FIRESTAR II (registration N47WH) operated by Hinklemann, William E. was involved in an aviation accident near Cumming, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT/OWNER'S FAILURE TO INSPECT THE AIRCRAFT, WHICH RESULTED IN A LOOSE SPARK PLUG LEAD. A FACTOR WAS THE ROUGH TERRAIN CONDITIONS AT THE LANDING AREA. 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

A private pilot conducted an emergency landing in a field after observing unusual engine vibrations and noise. During the landing roll, the right main landing gear struck a hole and collapsed. An engine examination revealed a loose spark plug lead.

Event Summary

A private pilot experienced unusual engine vibrations and noise while in flight and decided to perform an emergency landing in an open field. During the landing roll, the right main landing gear encountered a hole, causing the gear to collapse.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident examination of the engine disclosed that one of the spark plug leads was loose. Additionally, the aircraft had not undergone an inspection within the previous 12 months. The pilot-owner did not hold a current biennial flight review or a valid FAA medical certificate.

Aircraft and Pilot Information

The aircraft involved was a single-engine airplane operated by a private pilot who also owned the aircraft. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or pilot qualifications beyond the noted deficiencies were provided in the source.

Damage Assessment

The accident resulted in damage to the right main landing gear, which collapsed upon striking the hole. The extent of other damage was not specified in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03408. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.