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Pilot Reports RPM Loss Before Crash and Fire (N315K)

Kennesaw, GA, US

On October 15, 1997, a Beech 95-B55 (registration N315K) was involved in an aviation accident near Kennesaw, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper emergency procedures and subsequent loss of aircraft control, while attempting to maneuver for a precautionary landing. A factor relating to the accident was: partial loss of power in one or both engines 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

After reporting decreasing engine RPM, an airplane banked left, struck the ground, and burst into flames. Post-crash examination showed both engines had normal operational signatures and were producing power at impact.

Sequence of Events

The tower controller reported that the airplane took off and was approximately half a mile from the runway end at about 300 feet above ground level when the pilot radioed that he was 'losing RPM'.

Witness Observations

Witnesses stated that the airplane was flying very low, around 150 to 200 feet. They observed the airplane bank hard to the left and impact the ground with the left wing. The airplane then cartwheeled down a hill and burst into flames.

Destruction and Fire

The majority of the airplane was destroyed by the impact and subsequent post-crash fire.

Engine and Propeller Examination

Examination of both engines revealed normal operational signatures throughout. Examination of both propellers showed damage consistent with the development of power. Both propellers impacted the ground, separated from their respective engines, and tumbled, coming to rest in grassy areas. There was evidence that during the impact, both engines were producing some power and both propellers were rotating. However, the specific amount of power could not be quantified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Oct 1997 Beech 95-B55 accident near Kennesaw, GA?

After reporting decreasing engine RPM, an airplane banked left, struck the ground, and burst into flames. Post-crash examination showed both engines had normal operational signatures and were producing power at impact.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Oct 1997 involved a Beech 95-B55, registration N315K, at Kennesaw, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper emergency procedures and subsequent loss of aircraft control, while attempting to maneuver for a precautionary landing. A factor relating to the accident was: partial loss of power in one or both engines 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/20001208X08949. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.