Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 182 near Towanda, PA — 2023-09-30

Final reportERA23LA383
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Date
2023-09-30
Location
Towanda, PA, USA
Airport
N27
Aircraft
CESSNA 182
Registration
N747UC
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power during initial climb for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the preflight inspection and engine run-up were normal. During initial climb, about 300 ft above ground level, the engine began to run rough. The pilot varied the throttle, mixture, and carburetor heat levers in an attempt to restore power; however, the engine subsequently lost all power. The propeller continued to rotate and did not stop completely. The pilot moved the fuel selector from both, to left, to right, back to both, but was unable to restore engine power. He then performed a forced landing to a field. During the landing, the airplane nosed over, coming to rest inverted. Examination of the wreckage revealed that adequate fuel remained onboard and no fuel contamination was observed. Subsequent examination of the engine, fuel system, ignition system, and air intake did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Review of a carburetor icing chart revealed that the airplane was not susceptible to carburetor icing at cruise power for the prevailing temperature and dew point. Based on the available 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 aborted the takeoff during initial climb when engine ran rough.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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