Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing and Substantial Damage (N90904)

Granite City, IL, US

On August 21, 1999, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N90904) was involved in an aviation accident near Granite City, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of power for undetermined reason(s) and the rough/uneven. 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, the engine lost power, forcing a landing on rough terrain. Post-accident inspection revealed no mechanical anomalies.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during cruise flight, the engine experienced a complete loss of power. This necessitated an immediate forced landing on rough and uneven terrain. The aircraft sustained substantial damage as a result of the landing.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that he was unaware of the nature or origin of the engine power loss. No further information regarding the circumstances leading to the power loss was provided by the pilot.

Post-Accident Inspection

Following the accident, the aircraft was moved from the accident site to another location. At that point, an inspection of both the engine and airframe was conducted. The inspection did not reveal any mechanical anomalies. The top spark plugs were removed and were found to have brown deposits on them. Additionally, the wings had been removed, and there was no fuel remaining in the fuel tanks. However, the fuel present in the lines appeared blue in color and was free of contamination.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19458. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.