Casualties unknown

Partial Engine Loss Forces Agricultural Aircraft to Land in Field (N268JW)

Hill City, KS, US

On July 21, 1997, a Piper PA-36-285 (registration N268JW) was involved in an aviation accident near Hill City, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the sustained partial loss of engine power due to low compression on one cylinder and the rough, uneven 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An agricultural airplane on initial climb experienced a sustained partial loss of engine power. Despite dumping the chemical load, the pilot conducted a forced landing off airport, resulting in substantial damage. Post-accident examination revealed low compression on one cylinder.

Accident Sequence

The airplane was on initial climb with a full load of chemicals for aerial application when the engine experienced a sustained partial loss of power. The pilot reported that the loss of power persisted, and despite jettisoning the chemical load, the aircraft could not maintain flight. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing off the airport in an open field. The airplane sustained substantial damage during the landing.

Post-Accident Examination

After the accident, an examination of the engine was conducted. The examination revealed low compression on one of the cylinders. No additional issues were documented.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08331. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.