Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 182G near Casa Grande, AZ — 2023-11-26

Final reportWPR24LA042
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Date
2023-11-26
Location
Casa Grande, AZ, USA
Airport
CGZ
Aircraft
CESSNA 182G
Registration
N2428R
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Descent

Probable cause

The loss of engine power during landing for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he refueled the airplane with 28 gallons of fuel and calculated that he had enough fuel to commute to the airport and drop two loads of sky divers, with a 30-minute reserve. He estimated that the airplane burned about 7 gallons per 30 minutes of flight. The flight to the accident airport and drop of two loads of sky divers were uneventful. While on final to land after the third flight, the pilot advanced the throttle without a corresponding increase in power. He enriched the mixture, verified that the fuel selector was selected to Both, and checked his instruments while maintaining pitch for best glide. He then attempted to restart the engine. Unable to maintain altitude or land on the intended runway, he chose to land on flat desert terrain. During landing, the aircraft impacted a ditch resulting in substantial damage. Repeated attempts to coordinate an examination with the operator were unsuccessful. Based on this information, the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have refueled more to ensure adequate fuel for all operations.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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