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Engine Failure Leads to Crash During Crop Survey Flight (N2836E)

Marsing, ID, US

On August 11, 1996, an Aeronca 7CCM (registration N2836E) was involved in an aviation accident near Marsing, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s), and failure of the pilot to maintain adequate airspeed, while maneuvering for a forced landing, which resulted in a stall and collision with terrain. 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

A single-engine aircraft experienced engine failure while surveying fields at low altitude. The pilot attempted a 180-degree turn toward an open field, but the engine briefly restarted then quit again. The aircraft rocked its wings, then nosed down and impacted the ground in a steep descent. Investigators found no reason for the engine power loss.

Incident Details

The flight departed from a private crop duster airstrip with the purpose of surveying fields scheduled for spraying later that night and the following day. Approximately five minutes after takeoff, a witness observed the aircraft cruising at a low altitude, roughly level with nearby power poles.

Witness Account

The witness reported hearing the engine cease operation. Subsequently, the aircraft began a 180-degree turn, apparently aiming for an open field. During this turn, the engine restarted briefly before quitting again. The witness then saw the aircraft's wings begin to rock, followed by a sudden drop of the nose. The aircraft descended steeply and impacted the ground.

Investigation

Investigators examined the wreckage and operational history but could not determine a cause for the reported loss of engine power. No pre-existing mechanical issues or other factors were identified that would explain the engine's intermittent operation and eventual failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Aug 1996 Aeronca 7CCM accident near Marsing, ID?

A single-engine aircraft experienced engine failure while surveying fields at low altitude. The pilot attempted a 180-degree turn toward an open field, but the engine briefly restarted then quit again. The aircraft rocked its wings, then nosed down and impacted the ground in a steep descent. Investigators found no…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Aug 1996 involved an Aeronca 7CCM, registration N2836E, at Marsing, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s), and failure of the pilot to maintain adequate airspeed, while maneuvering for a forced landing, which resulted in a stall and collision with terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06613. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.