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Non-Certificated Pilot Forced to Land in Rice Field After Engine Power Loss (N7054H)

Humnoke, AR, US

On December 6, 2006, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N7054H) operated by Delbert E Brown was involved in an aviation accident near Humnoke, AR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power during initial takeoff climb for undetermined reasons. A factor 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.

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

A non-certificated pilot experienced engine power loss during climb after takeoff from a private airstrip, forcing a landing in a rice field where the airplane nosed over.

Accident Overview

A non-certificated pilot reported that he departed his private airstrip to the north to "ride over his farm." During the initial takeoff climb, the engine lost power while climbing through 300 feet. The pilot noted that the engine was "running strange as if it had water in the fuel." The best suitable forced landing area was a cultivated rice field, so the pilot attempted to land the tailwheel-equipped airplane in the field.

Landing and Aftermath

During the landing roll on the soft terrain, the airplane nosed over and came to rest in the inverted position. The pilot was assisted out of the airplane by his grandson, who witnessed the accident. Examination of the airplane revealed that it sustained structural damage. The reason for the reported loss of engine power could not be determined.

Weather Conditions

Weather was reported as clear skies with light and variable winds.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Dec 2006 Piper J3C-65 accident near Humnoke, AR?

A non-certificated pilot experienced engine power loss during climb after takeoff from a private airstrip, forcing a landing in a rice field where the airplane nosed over.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Dec 2006 Piper J3C-65 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Dec 2006 involved a Piper J3C-65, registration N7054H, operated by Delbert E Brown, at Humnoke, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of engine power during initial takeoff climb for undetermined reasons. A factor was the 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/20070118X00065. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.