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Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Forces Landing on Golf Course, Aircraft Destroyed by Post-Impact Fire (N6303W)

Owasso, OK, US

On April 29, 2002, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N6303W) was involved in an aviation accident near Owasso, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power as a result of the pilot's failure to remove the engine cowling plugs during the preflight inspection. A contributing factor was lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. 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 small airplane lost engine power after departure, executed a forced landing on a golf course, struck uneven terrain and trees, and was consumed by fire. Witnesses reported cowl plugs were still installed during takeoff.

Accident Overview

A pilot and a passenger took off from a local airport for a flight to allow the passenger to take aerial photographs of a baseball field. After departure, the pilot flew around the area for the photo session. Subsequently, the engine lost power, prompting the pilot to initiate a forced landing on a golf course.

Impact and Fire

The airplane impacted uneven terrain and trees during the landing, coming to rest upright. A post-impact fire ensued, which completely consumed the aircraft.

Witness and Inspection

According to a witness at the departure airport, the airplane was observed taking off with cowl plugs still installed. An FAA inspector who responded to the accident site examined the wreckage and located the engine cowl plugs prior to the green (likely referring to a golf course feature).

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Apr 2002 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Owasso, OK?

A small airplane lost engine power after departure, executed a forced landing on a golf course, struck uneven terrain and trees, and was consumed by fire. Witnesses reported cowl plugs were still installed during takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Apr 2002 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N6303W, at Owasso, OK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of engine power as a result of the pilot's failure to remove the engine cowling plugs during the preflight inspection. A contributing factor was lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020501X00598. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.