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Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Approach Leads to Collision with Tree (N30155)

Friendswood, TX, US

On July 9, 1996, an O'day SONERAI II-LS (registration N30155) operated by Eldon D. Criswell was involved in an aviation accident near Friendswood, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loss of engine power for undetermined reasons, and the pilot's failure to attain the proper traffic pattern altitude on the downwind leg prior to turning the base leg. 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

An airplane experienced an engine failure during a turn from downwind to base leg, resulting in a collision with a tree near the runway end. Postaccident examination revealed a displaced carburetor jet needle.

Incident Overview

An airplane was observed approaching an airport at an altitude lower than the standard traffic pattern. While turning from the downwind leg to the base leg, the engine stopped producing power. The airplane subsequently collided with a tree situated near the end of the runway.

Postaccident Examination

An examination conducted after the accident focused on the engine. Investigators found that the carburetor flow jet needle was displaced by 15 degrees from its intended setting. The specific cause of this displacement was not determined during the investigation.

Additional Details

No information regarding the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, occupants, injuries, or damage items was provided in the source. Weather conditions, time of day, and air traffic control involvement were not specified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jul 1996 O'day SONERAI II-LS accident near Friendswood, TX?

An airplane experienced an engine failure during a turn from downwind to base leg, resulting in a collision with a tree near the runway end. Postaccident examination revealed a displaced carburetor jet needle.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jul 1996 involved an O'day SONERAI II-LS, registration N30155, operated by Eldon D. Criswell, at Friendswood, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

a loss of engine power for undetermined reasons, and the pilot's failure to attain the proper traffic pattern altitude on the downwind leg prior to turning the base leg.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06216. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.