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Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Touch-and-Go Landing Sequence (N150KS)

Mulino, OR, US

On August 18, 1996, a Piper PA-20 (registration N150KS) operated by James K. Warnock was involved in an aviation accident near Mulino, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). 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 pilot performing touch-and-go landings experienced an engine power loss at low altitude. An emergency landing on the remaining runway was insufficient, leading to an intentional nose-over to avoid a steep drop-off.

Accident Sequence

A pilot was performing a series of touch-and-go landings. While climbing after the fifth touch-and-go, the engine lost power at approximately 150 to 200 feet above ground level. The pilot attempted an emergency landing on the remaining available runway, but there was insufficient runway remaining to stop. To avoid rolling off a steep drop-off to a river about 100 feet below, the pilot performed an intentional nose-over near the end of the runway.

Investigation

Following the event, an inspection and running of the engine did not reveal the reason for the loss of engine power. Sufficient fuel for the flight was available in the airplane.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Aug 1996 Piper PA-20 accident near Mulino, OR?

A pilot performing touch-and-go landings experienced an engine power loss at low altitude. An emergency landing on the remaining runway was insufficient, leading to an intentional nose-over to avoid a steep drop-off.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Aug 1996 involved a Piper PA-20, registration N150KS, operated by James K. Warnock, at Mulino, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s).

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06630. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.