On October 18, 1995, a Piper PA-18 (registration N6550Z) operated by Daniel C. Herman was involved in an aviation accident near Red Devil, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power for an undetermined reason. The lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private pilot experienced a sudden engine failure while cruising at 800 feet AGL during a trap line check. Selecting a river gravel bar for emergency landing, the pilot overshot and collided with water. The aircraft was recovered and disassembled; no power loss cause was identified.
Accident Details
A certificated private pilot was conducting a flight to check trap lines when the engine suddenly quit while in cruise flight at an altitude of about 800 feet above ground level. The pilot selected a gravel bar on a river as an intended emergency landing area. During the approach, the pilot overshot the chosen landing spot, and the airplane subsequently collided with water.
Recovery and Investigation
The airplane was recovered from the river and then disassembled by the pilot for repair. During the disassembly and inspection, the pilot did not report finding any cause for the loss of engine power. No further details regarding the aircraft or injuries were provided in the source.
What happened in the 18 Oct 1995 Piper PA-18 accident near Red Devil, AK?
A private pilot experienced a sudden engine failure while cruising at 800 feet AGL during a trap line check. Selecting a river gravel bar for emergency landing, the pilot overshot and collided with water. The aircraft was recovered and disassembled; no power loss cause was identified.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Oct 1995 Piper PA-18 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Oct 1995 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N6550Z, operated by Daniel C. Herman, at Red Devil, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of engine power for an undetermined reason. The lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing was a related factor.
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