Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172 - F near Gainesville, FL — 2013-10-05

Final reportERA14LA008
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Date
2013-10-05
Location
Gainesville, FL, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 172 - F
Registration
N8715U
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because a postaccident engine examination and test run revealed no anomalies.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, about 20 minutes into the banner tow flight, he noticed that the airplane had descended about 100 ft from its established altitude. He responded by increasing engine power and enriching the mixture while observing that the oil temperature gauge was indicating "hotter than normal." The airplane continued to descend, the oil temperature continued to rise into the red arc, and the engine subsequently experienced a total loss of power. The pilot released the banner and then unsuccessfully attempted to restart the engine. He then conducted a forced landing to a nearby field. The airplane impacted a parked vehicle, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. Postaccident engine examinations revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures, and a test run was conducted using the fuel onboard at the time of the accident with no anomalies observed.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have enriched mixture earlier to prevent engine power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents12

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