Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172S near Boyd, TX — 2009-07-14

Final reportCEN09LA442
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Date
2009-07-14
Location
Boyd, TX, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 172S
Registration
N2446F
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to the pilot's improper leaning procedures, resulting in a forced landing and collision with a fence.

NTSB narrative

The student pilot stated that he conducted a preflight inspection and engine run-up and noted no anomalies. He departed and climbed to 2,000 feet when the engine started running rough and popping. The engine rpms dropped from 2,200 to 2,000 without the throttle being moved. The pilot leaned the fuel mixture until the engine reached peak temperature and then enriched the mixture to -30 degrees. The engine roughness and popping increased and the rpms began to drop. The pilot then made a forced landing to a pasture. The airplane collided with several fixed objects and sustained structural damage to the airframe. Examination of the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly and accessories revealed no anomalies. The Pilot's Operating Handbook specified that in case of engine problems the mixture control should be set to "rich".

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted the flight after engine roughness was noted.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents14

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