Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Grass Field Landing and Nose Over (N4158Z)

Berkley, MA, US

On April 5, 1998, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4158Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Berkley, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s), which resulted in a forced landing and subsequent nose-over on uneven terrain. Uneven terrain (furrow) in the forced landing area was a related factor. 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

During cruise flight, an airplane's engine lost power and sputtered. Carburetor heat application had no effect, prompting a landing in a grass field. During rollout, the airplane struck a furrow and nosed over. Post-accident engine tests showed no abnormalities.

Accident Overview

The pilot of a single-engine airplane reported that during cruise flight, the engine began to lose power and sputter. Application of carburetor heat did not resolve the issue, leading the pilot to execute a forced landing in a grass field.

Sequence of Events

While rolling out at a speed of approximately 10 to 15 miles per hour, the airplane entered a furrow between two fields and nosed over. The landing and subsequent nose-over resulted in damage to the aircraft.

Post-Accident Examination

Fuel samples taken from both tanks and the gascolator were clear. The carburetor was secure, with the venturi and bleed tube in place. A carburetor Airworthiness Directive had been completed during the last annual inspection. Additionally, a post-accident engine test run was performed, and no abnormal indications were noted.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09940. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.