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Engine Power Loss During Takeoff Leads to Field Landing (N9970P)

Hazleton, ID, US

On June 20, 1996, a Piper PA-36-285 (registration N9970P) operated by Bob's Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Hazleton, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: partial loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). Factors relating to the accident were: high density altitude; the pilot's delay in dumping the entire chemical load, when he first perceived a power loss; and rough/uneven terrain in the emergency… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported a 15% power reduction during takeoff, followed by an engine surge. Despite dumping the chemical load, the aircraft could not climb, and the landing gear collapsed in a plowed field.

Incident Summary

During takeoff, the pilot reported an approximate 15% reduction in power. At that point, the aircraft had reached the go/no-go point, and the pilot judged that sufficient airspeed existed to continue the takeoff. Shortly after turning left from the runway heading, the engine surged.

Response and Outcome

In response to the surge, the pilot initiated a partial dump of the 200-gallon chemical load. Despite this, the aircraft was unable to achieve a positive climb rate. The pilot then began dumping the remainder of the chemical load. During this process, the main landing gear contacted furrows of a plowed field and subsequently collapsed. The aircraft slid to a stop.

Environmental Conditions

The density altitude at the time was approximately 5,400 feet.

Post-Incident Examination

During examination of the engine, no reason was found for the partial loss of power.

Engine failure

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jun 1996 Piper PA-36-285 accident near Hazleton, ID?

A pilot reported a 15% power reduction during takeoff, followed by an engine surge. Despite dumping the chemical load, the aircraft could not climb, and the landing gear collapsed in a plowed field.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Jun 1996 Piper PA-36-285 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jun 1996 involved a Piper PA-36-285, registration N9970P, operated by Bob's Flying Service, at Hazleton, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

partial loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). Factors relating to the accident were: high density altitude; the pilot's delay in dumping the entire chemical load, when he first perceived a power loss; and rough/uneven terrain in the emergency landing area.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06124. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.