Casualties unknown

Engine Failure After Takeoff Leads to Forced Landing and Damage (N92469)

North Pole, AK, US

On October 14, 2004, a Piper J-3 (registration N92469) was involved in an aviation accident near North Pole, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An inadequate annual inspection by other maintenance personnel, which resulted in a loss of engine power during takeoff-initial climb, and subsequent collision with trees during the ensuing emergency 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial flight instructor and student experienced a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing into trees. Postaccident inspection revealed an incorrect carburetor, fuel contamination, and a clogged gascolator.

Incident Overview

A commercial certificated flight instructor was providing flight instruction for a tailwheel endorsement to the commercial certificated airplane owner. Shortly after departing from a private airstrip, the airplane experienced a complete loss of engine power. The flight instructor took control of the airplane and executed a forced landing into adjacent trees.

Aircraft Damage

The forced landing resulted in structural damage to both wings and the rudder. No further details on the extent of damage were provided.

Postaccident Inspection

An FAA airworthiness inspector conducted a postaccident inspection of the airplane. The inspection revealed that the airplane had completed its annual inspection approximately 9 flight hours before the accident.

During the inspection, the following discrepancies were noted:

  • An incorrect size carburetor had been installed by the mechanic who performed the annual inspection.
  • The center fuel tank exhibited corrosion and rust contamination and was missing its outlet fuel screen.
  • The fuel gascolator screen was clogged with foreign debris. After cleaning the gascolator, the inspector reported that "the engine started and ran fine."

Probable Cause

The source does not explicitly state a probable cause for the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041021X01671. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.