Probable cause
A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.
NTSB analysis
The student was turning from base to final in the airport traffic pattern when the engine lost total power. The student transferred control of the airplane to the instructor; the airplane sustained substantial damage during the subsequent forced landing to an open field.
Postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no anomalies. The fuel selector handle was found near one of the two OFF detent positions; however, the position of the fuel selector at the time of the loss of power could not be determined.
Based on the available information, the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA193 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 18, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mckinney, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Mckinney Ntl (TKI)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA28R
- N-number
- N2973R
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1969
- 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.