Casualties unknown

Pilot Abandons Grass Strip Approach, Aircraft Settles onto Residential Garage Following Power Loss (N8500A)

Knoxville, TN, US

On September 25, 1995, a Beech A35 (registration N8500A) operated by Perry Pemberton was involved in an aviation accident near Knoxville, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO USE THE CARBURETOR HEAT DURING THE APPROACH. THE FACTORS WERE: FAILURE TO OBTAIN A WEATHER BRIEFING, AND WEATHER CONDITIONS FAVORABLE FOR THE FORMATION OF CARBURETOR ICING. 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 commercial pilot abandoned a landing approach to a grass strip due to insufficient runway. During the go-around, the engine gradually lost power, and the aircraft settled into trees before coming to rest on a garage. Post-accident engine examination found normal operation.

Accident Overview

A commercial pilot initiated a go-around after abandoning an approach to a grass landing strip, having determined that the remaining runway was insufficient for a safe landing and roll out. During the go-around attempt, the engine experienced a gradual loss of power, causing the airplane to settle into trees at the departure end of the runway. The aircraft ultimately came to rest on top of a residential garage.

Post-Accident Engine Examination

Following the accident, a functional examination of the engine was conducted. The engine operated normally under test conditions, with no anomalies detected.

Pilot Actions and Awareness

The pilot reported that he did not receive a weather briefing prior to the flight and was unaware of weather conditions favorable for carburetor icing. During the approach, the pilot checked the carburetor heat but did not use it.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04424. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.