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Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Initial Climb Leads to Forced Landing (N8726N)

Gladewater, TX, US

On March 9, 1996, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N8726N) was involved in an aviation accident near Gladewater, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: fuel starvation due to the pilot inadvertently turning the fuel selector to the OFF position. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. 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

During initial climb, a pilot adjusted a cold air vent; 30–45 seconds later, total engine power loss occurred. Forced landing resulted in stall at tree height and collision with trees. Examination showed fuel selector OFF and left air vent open.

Event Description

During the initial climb, the pilot perceived cold air emanating from the left air vent and adjusted the vent. Approximately 30 to 45 seconds after this adjustment, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot executed a forced landing; during the landing, the airplane stalled at tree-top height, struck trees, and came to rest nose-down in the terrain.

Post-Accident Examination

A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel selector was in the OFF position. Additionally, the left air vent was found in the open position.

Additional Information

The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, number of occupants, injuries, or weather conditions. No information regarding air traffic control involvement was provided.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Mar 1996 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Gladewater, TX?

During initial climb, a pilot adjusted a cold air vent; 30–45 seconds later, total engine power loss occurred. Forced landing resulted in stall at tree height and collision with trees. Examination showed fuel selector OFF and left air vent open.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Mar 1996 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N8726N, at Gladewater, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

fuel starvation due to the pilot inadvertently turning the fuel selector to the OFF position. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05400. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.