On August 19, 2000, a Gulfstream American AA-5B (registration N4516P) was involved in an aviation accident near Barrett, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control while maneuvering, which resulted in an inadvertent stall. A contributing factor was the loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses observed an airplane approach a private airstrip, lose engine power, and crash into trees. Post-accident examination found no anomalies; the cause of the power loss could not be determined.
Accident Summary
On an unspecified date, witnesses near the northwest end of a private airstrip observed an airplane approaching from the west at an altitude of about 30 to 60 feet above ground level. The airplane appeared to be preparing for landing. As it passed the witnesses, the engine sounded as if it was cutting out. The airplane then pulled up, and the engine suddenly stopped producing power. The aircraft turned left and descended nose-first into a stand of trees. The airplane was subsequently consumed by fire.
Investigation Details
A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no structural or mechanical anomalies. Investigators could not determine the reason for the engine's loss of power. The ambient temperature at the time of the accident was 86 degrees Fahrenheit, with a dew point of 73 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the carburetor icing probability chart, these conditions place the airplane in the serious icing range at glide power.