Forced Landing Following Engine Power Loss

Casualties unknown • Dickson, TN, US

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a field after an aircraft experienced partial power loss during descent.

What happened

During a slow descent from 5,500 feet to 2,500 feet, the aircraft experienced a loss of partial engine power. The pilot attempted to recover performance by increasing the throttle position, but the engine did not respond to the adjustment.

Despite the loss of power, the aircraft's engine gauges showed no apparent mechanical problems or malfunctions. In response to the power loss, the pilot executed emergency procedures, which included checking the fuel selector valve lever, the electric fuel pump switch, and the fuel mixture control lever.

Because the engine performance failed to improve and the aircraft lacked sufficient altitude to reach the nearest airport, the pilot performed a forced landing in a field. The impact of the landing was severe enough to separate the right main landing gear from the airframe and cause the nose gear to collapse. There were no injuries reported following the accident.

Probable cause

The engine experienced partial power loss that did not respond to throttle increases, resulting in insufficient altitude to reach an airport and necessitating a forced landing.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-05-16 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Dickson, TN?

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a field after an aircraft experienced partial power loss during descent.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-05-16 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N414AA, at Dickson, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine experienced partial power loss that did not respond to throttle increases, resulting in insufficient altitude to reach an airport and necessitating a forced landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18692. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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