Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Touch-and-Go Pattern Leads to Forced Landing and Tree Strike (N9234B)

Monticello, NY, US

On October 31, 1995, a Bischoff VAN RV-6 (registration N9234B) was involved in an aviation accident near Monticello, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper inflight decision to continue flight without sufficient fuel, which resulted in a loss of power due to fuel exhaustion. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot departed with 10 gallons of fuel, intending to refuel but instead performed touch-and-go landings. After the fifth landing, the engine lost power during initial climb, forcing a landing into trees. No fuel spill or odor was detected.

Departure and Fuel Situation

The pilot began the flight with 10 gallons of fuel onboard and planned to refuel at a nearby airport.

Pattern Operations

Upon arrival at the intended airport, the pilot did not refuel. Instead, the pilot remained in the traffic pattern and conducted touch-and-go landings.

Power Loss and Forced Landing

After the fifth landing, the airplane was on initial climb when the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing, during which the airplane struck trees.

Post-Accident Observations

Responders to the accident site found no evidence of a fuel spill or fuel odor. The airplane had been airborne for approximately 50 to 55 minutes at the time of the power loss.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Oct 1995 Bischoff VAN RV-6 accident near Monticello, NY?

A pilot departed with 10 gallons of fuel, intending to refuel but instead performed touch-and-go landings. After the fifth landing, the engine lost power during initial climb, forcing a landing into trees. No fuel spill or odor was detected.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Oct 1995 involved a Bischoff VAN RV-6, registration N9234B, at Monticello, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper inflight decision to continue flight without sufficient fuel, which resulted in a loss of power due to fuel exhaustion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04782. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.