On March 2, 1996, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N95394) was involved in an aviation accident near Pittsburg, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Incapacitation of the pilot and passenger due to carbon monoxide poisoning from a defective muffler system, which led to loss of control and impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot and passenger lost consciousness due to carbon monoxide poisoning from a muffler leak, leading to a terrain impact shortly after takeoff.
What happened
The pilot reported that she and her passenger became incapacitated shortly after takeoff. The airplane subsequently impacted the terrain. Both occupants were transported to a hospital for observation and testing for carbon monoxide. Tests confirmed positive results for carbon monoxide in their systems.
The investigation
A subsequent examination of the aircraft revealed holes in the muffler system. An annual inspection had been performed on the airplane just 4 flight-hours prior to the accident, on February 20, 1996.
Findings
The presence of carbon monoxide in the occupants' systems was linked to the muffler defect. The proximity of the last maintenance event suggests a potential oversight or rapid failure not detected during the recent inspection.
Probable cause
Incapacitation of the pilot and passenger due to carbon monoxide poisoning from a defective muffler system, which led to loss of control and impact with terrain.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Mar 1996 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Pittsburg, KS?
A pilot and passenger lost consciousness due to carbon monoxide poisoning from a muffler leak, leading to a terrain impact shortly after takeoff.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 Mar 1996 Piper PA-28-140 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Mar 1996 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N95394, at Pittsburg, KS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Incapacitation of the pilot and passenger due to carbon monoxide poisoning from a defective muffler system, which led to loss of control and impact with terrain.
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