Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing in Wooded Area During Training Flight (N7294F)

Milan, TN, US

On August 11, 1997, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N7294F) operated by Stephen Aldred was involved in an aviation accident near Milan, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of partial engine power due to undetermined reasons. A factor was the favorable atmospheric conditions for carburetor icing. 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

During a training flight after a recent overhaul, a CFI and student experienced engine power loss. RPM decreased steadily until altitude could not be maintained, prompting a straight-ahead landing into trees. Conditions were favorable for carburetor icing.

Flight Details

The flight instructor (CFI) reported that the airplane had accumulated only five hours since its last major overhaul. Prior to the training flight, the CFI flew the aircraft solo to check for any issues. Subsequently, a dual training flight with a student was conducted.

Incident Sequence

Shortly after takeoff, the engine began to lose power. The revolutions per minute (RPM) steadily decreased until the airplane was unable to maintain altitude. At this point, the CFI decided to execute a forced landing straight ahead into a wooded area.

Environmental Conditions

The atmospheric conditions at the time were favorable for carburetor icing, which is a known potential cause of engine power loss in certain weather conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Aug 1997 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Milan, TN?

During a training flight after a recent overhaul, a CFI and student experienced engine power loss. RPM decreased steadily until altitude could not be maintained, prompting a straight-ahead landing into trees. Conditions were favorable for carburetor icing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Aug 1997 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N7294F, operated by Stephen Aldred, at Milan, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of partial engine power due to undetermined reasons. A factor was the favorable atmospheric conditions for carburetor icing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08550. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.