Probable cause
A total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that on departure the engine lost then regained power. The pilot turned the airplane back toward the airport to land and, during the turn, a total loss of engine power occurred. The airplane impacted a snowbank during the landing. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.
Postaccident examination of the engine revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC23LA020 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 9, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Soldotna, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Soldotna Airport (SXQ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-16
- N-number
- N5987H
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.