Probable cause
The loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because the engine examination did not reveal any malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot and two passengers were in cruise flight when the airplane’s engine lost power. The pilot turned on the electric-driven fuel pump, switched fuel tanks, and applied carburetor heat. The engine did not respond; therefore, he performed a forced landing in a field. A postaccident examination of the engine did not reveal any preexisting malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Although the atmospheric conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to serious carburetor icing at glide power settings, the airplane was operating at cruise power. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA287 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 18, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Oskaloosa, Iowa
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 3
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-28-161
- N-number
- N47539
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.