On May 24, 2002, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N9243K) was involved in an aviation accident near Noorvik, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The partial loss of engine power during the climb to cruise for an undetermined reason, which resulted in a forced landing in soft terrain. A factor associated in the accident was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot performing an air taxi/cargo flight experienced engine roughness and power loss during climb. Emergency procedures failed, forcing a landing in marshy terrain, resulting in substantial aircraft damage. Post-recovery engine inspection found no mechanical malfunction.
Incident Overview
A solo commercial pilot operating an air taxi/cargo flight departed from a remote airport. Shortly after takeoff, during the cruise climb phase, the aircraft's engine began to run rough and lose power. The pilot executed emergency engine procedures, but these did not rectify the roughness or restore power.
Forced Landing and Damage
The pilot conducted a forced landing in a marshy, muskeg-covered area. Upon landing, the aircraft sustained substantial damage to both wings, the engine firewall, and the fuselage.
Post-Recovery Examination
After the aircraft was recovered, an FAA airworthiness inspector examined the engine. The inspection did not reveal any mechanical malfunction that could explain the power loss.