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Pilot's Go-Around Results in Tree Strike After Engine Sputter Due to Mixture Control (N8199D)

Sandusky, OH, US

On July 20, 2003, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N8199D) was involved in an aviation accident near Sandusky, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain the engine mixture control during the go-around, which resulted in a loss of power, and in-flight collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach, a pilot initiated a go-around after observing a twin-engine airplane on a taxiway. During climb, the engine sputtered and lost power; the pilot found the mixture control pulled back and corrected, but the airplane struck trees beyond the runway.

Incident Overview

The airplane was on final approach to a 3,559-foot-long, 60-foot-wide asphalt runway. The pilot observed a twin-engine airplane on a taxiway near the runway and, uncertain whether it would use the runway, elected to go-around.

Go-Around and Engine Sputter

The pilot pushed the throttle full forward and kept his right hand on the power quadrant. During the climb out, the engine began to sputter and lose power. Looking down at the power quadrant, the pilot noticed that the engine mixture control was pulled back. He pushed the mixture control in and lowered the airplane's nose to avoid a stall.

Collision with Trees

Despite these actions, the airplane struck trees about 1/2 mile beyond the departure end of the runway.

Examination

Examination of the engine and associated controls did not reveal any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions.

Engine failure

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jul 2003 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Sandusky, OH?

During final approach, a pilot initiated a go-around after observing a twin-engine airplane on a taxiway. During climb, the engine sputtered and lost power; the pilot found the mixture control pulled back and corrected, but the airplane struck trees beyond the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jul 2003 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N8199D, at Sandusky, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain the engine mixture control during the go-around, which resulted in a loss of power, and in-flight collision with trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030728X01201. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.