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Pilot Hospitalized After Forced Landing in Field Following Engine Power Loss (N9185P)

Fort Pierce, FL, US

On December 20, 2000, a Piper PA-28R-201 (registration N9185P) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Pierce, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper approach for landing while making a landing following a reported momentary partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons and his decision to make a go-around from the approach resulting in a landing in a field and collapse of the… 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

A pilot sustained a head injury after the nose gear collapsed during a forced landing in a field. The engine lost power during a go-around, and postcrash tests found no mechanical issues.

Accident Sequence

The pilot reported that after takeoff, turning off the electric fuel boost pump caused the engine to lose about 300 rpm. Restoring the pump restored power. While turning onto final approach, the pilot aligned with the wrong runway and initiated a go-around. During the go-around, the engine popped and then reduced to idle power. Unable to return to the airport, the pilot landed in a field. During the landing rollout, the nose landing gear collapsed, and the pilot struck his head when the shoulder harness failed to lock.

Postcrash Examination

The airplane received minor damage, and the pilot was hospitalized for a head injury. A postcrash engine run-up with the electric boost pump both on and off showed no evidence of failure or malfunction. The pilot's shoulder harness was found stowed after the accident; it locked normally when subjected to pull tests.

Pilot Background

The pilot was operating under a court order dated June 4, 1998, that prohibited operating aircraft. The pilot was scheduled to surrender to authorities in the State of Connecticut on the day of the accident to begin serving a prison sentence.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Dec 2000 Piper PA-28R-201 accident near Fort Pierce, FL?

A pilot sustained a head injury after the nose gear collapsed during a forced landing in a field. The engine lost power during a go-around, and postcrash tests found no mechanical issues.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Dec 2000 Piper PA-28R-201 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Dec 2000 involved a Piper PA-28R-201, registration N9185P, at Fort Pierce, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper approach for landing while making a landing following a reported momentary partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons and his decision to make a go-around from the approach resulting in a landing in a field and collapse of the nose landing gear following a reported total loss of engine…

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001228X45498. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.