No fatalities

Engine Failure Prompts Forced Landing After Takeoff (N1685H)

Melfa, VA, US

On November 19, 1998, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N1685H) was involved in an aviation accident near Melfa, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after takeoff, the airplane's engine stopped. The pilot performed a forced landing in wooded terrain off the departure runway. Both occupants exited with minor injuries.

Incident Overview

Shortly after takeoff during the climb-out, the airplane's engine ceased operating. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot executed a forced landing in wooded terrain off the end of the departure runway.

Occupant Status

Both the pilot and passenger exited the aircraft on their own and sustained minor injuries.

Pilot Actions and Checks

The pilot reported checking the fuel prior to takeoff and found no contaminants. He also verified that the engine-driven fuel pump was in the 'on' position.

Engine Examination

The engine was examined and test-run satisfactorily. No pre-impact discrepancies were noted with the engine or related systems. Examination of a fuel sample revealed it was absent of contaminants.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Nov 1998 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Melfa, VA?

Shortly after takeoff, the airplane's engine stopped. The pilot performed a forced landing in wooded terrain off the departure runway. Both occupants exited with minor injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Nov 1998 Piper PA-28-161 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Nov 1998 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N1685H, at Melfa, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11444. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.