Casualties unknown

Engine Failure After Takeoff Leads to River Landing (N6994Y)

Harrisburg, PA, US

On July 7, 1996, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N6994Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Harrisburg, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the right engine due to a fatigue fracture of the crankshaft resultant from heat cracks from an undetermined source. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a right engine seizure at 150 feet after takeoff and performed a forced water landing in a river, avoiding terrain, a dam, and high-tension wires.

Preflight and Takeoff

The pilot reported that the preflight inspection, engine start, taxi, and pre-takeoff checks were all normal.

Engine Failure

After takeoff, at approximately 150 feet above ground level, the right engine seized immediately.

Pilot Actions

The pilot could not turn the airplane safely and return to the airport to land, so he concentrated on maintaining directional control. With rising terrain to the left and a populated area with a river to the right, the pilot chose to turn into the dead engine. Once over the river, he noticed a dam in one direction and knew he did not have the climb capability to fly over it. He turned the opposite direction only to see high-tension wires strung across the river. He knew he could not gain altitude to fly over the wires and did not think he could get underneath them. He made another steep turn to remain over the river and avoid the wires, but in doing so lost his remaining altitude and accepted a water landing.

Water Landing

Just prior to water impact, the pilot leveled the wings and pulled the nose of the airplane up to lessen the impact forces. Examination of the wreckage showed that the landing gear were down, and the pilot stated that he could not recall raising the landing gear.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06252. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.