Cessna 172 near Red Rock, AZ — 2019-05-06

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while descending in the single-engine airplane toward the destination airport, the engine lost partial power. He performed a forced landing to a dirt road, during which the airplane contacted a bush, resulting in substantial damage. Postaccident examination of the engine and an engine test run revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Atmospheric conditions at the time of the accident were not conducive to the development of carburetor icing. The reason for the partial loss of engine power could not be determined based on the available information.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Engine power loss

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have used carburetor heat during descent.

NTSB coding

• Loss of engine power (partial) · Enroute-descent
• Engine Failure Enroute

Evidence available

• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• EXCERPT FROM FAA PILOT OPERATING HANDBOOK - CARBURETOR ICING PROBABILITYother
• RECORD OF PHONE CONVERSATION (PILOT)other
• SUMMARY OF ENGINE EXAMINATIONother

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