No fatalities

Engine Failure Prompts Grass Landing; Landing Gear Sheared Off (N5530F)

Deland, FL, US

On September 21, 2000, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N5530F) was involved in an aviation accident near Deland, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exhaust valve for the number two cylinder was stuck in the open position. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff, engine lost power and ran roughly. Pilot returned, made 180-degree turn, landed on grass due to traffic. Landing gear sheared off, wing and firewall bent. Examination found stuck exhaust valve.

Incident Summary

Shortly after departure, the engine lost power and began running roughly. The pilot decided to return to the airport and executed a 180-degree turn with the intention of landing on runway 5. However, because another aircraft had already landed on runway 23, the pilot touched down on the grass alongside runway 5. During this emergency landing, the nose landing gear and right main landing gear were sheared off from the aircraft. Additionally, the right wing and the firewall sustained bending damage.

Post-Accident Examination

After the accident, a detailed inspection of the engine was conducted. The examination found that the exhaust valve for the number two cylinder was stuck in the open position.

Probable cause

The exhaust valve for the number two cylinder was stuck in the open position.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Sept 2000 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Deland, FL?

After takeoff, engine lost power and ran roughly. Pilot returned, made 180-degree turn, landed on grass due to traffic. Landing gear sheared off, wing and firewall bent. Examination found stuck exhaust valve.

Were there any fatalities in the 21 Sept 2000 Piper PA-28-140 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Sept 2000 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N5530F, at Deland, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exhaust valve for the number two cylinder was stuck in the open position.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21913. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.