Pilot Debrief

CESSNA A185F near White Mountain, AK — 2018-08-01

Final reportANC18LA059
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Date
2018-08-01
Location
White Mountain, AK, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA A185F
Registration
N185KB
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination of the engine revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB narrative

The private pilot was conducting a cross-country flight when he demonstrated a momentary zero-G maneuver, shortly after which the engine lost partial power. The pilot was unable to restore engine power and subsequently conducted a forced landing to tundra covered terrain, during which the airplane nosed over, resulting in substantial damage. Postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation; however, one engine exhaust valve exhibited signatures consistent with uneven excessive heat exposure, but no mechanical failure of the valve, therefore would not have resulted in a loss of power. It is unlikely that a momentary zero G maneuver would result in a partial power loss that could not be restored.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided demonstrating maneuvers with passengers on board.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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