Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 150 near Berry, AL — 2022-08-20

Final reportERA22LA380
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Date
2022-08-20
Location
Berry, AL, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 150
Registration
N8797G
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power due to the No. 3 cylinder’s stuck exhaust valve.

NTSB narrative

The student pilot and flight instructor reported that the engine lost partial power during cruise flight. The instructor assumed control of the airplane, attempted to restore power, and performed a forced landing to a cleared area of wooded terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the airplane. The postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the exhaust valve in the No. 3 cylinder was stuck in the open position. Based on this finding, it is likely that the partial loss of engine power was the result of the No. 3 cylinder’s stuck exhaust valve. The engine maintenance records were not available for review, and the maintenance history of the engine could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Instructor could have opted for an immediate landing instead of attempting to restore power.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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