Probable cause
The loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination of the engine revealed no anomalies.
NTSB analysis
The flight instructor reported that he was providing instruction to a pilot in the tandem-seat airplane. He reported that, immediately after the pilot receiving instruction turned the airplane from the downwind to the base leg of the traffic pattern, the engine lost power. He took control of the airplane and called for the magnetos and boost pump to be turned on as he switched fuel tanks. He was unable to find a suitable landing area, so he attempted a landing to a small field. During the landing and while he was attempting to avoid a tree at the end of the field, the airplane struck a cattle pen. Examination of the engine revealed no preimpact anomalies. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN14LA200 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 16, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fredericksburg, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Silver Wings (TS36)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna O 1E
- N-number
- N50WP
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.