Casualties unknown

Pilot Inadvertently Pulls Mixture Control During Go-Around, Leading to Engine Failure and Off-Airport Landing (N2605L)

Mesquite, TX, US

On February 19, 1982, a Cessna 172H (registration N2605L) operated by Michael D. Newman was involved in an aviation accident near Mesquite, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot inadvertently pulled the mixture control too far, causing the engine to quit. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a go-around after a long landing, the engine failed at 100 feet AGL. The pilot landed in a plowed field. No preimpact failure was found; the pilot stated he may have pulled the mixture control too far.

Event Details

The pilot reported that the aircraft touched down approximately one-third of the way down the runway and was rolling at a high speed past the intersection. He then elected to initiate a go-around. When the aircraft reached about 100 feet above ground level (AGL), the engine quit. The pilot performed an emergency landing in a plowed field located about 300 feet beyond the end of the runway.

Post-Accident Examination

After the accident, the engine and its components were disassembled. The examination revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. The engine appeared to have been capable of normal operation at the time of the event.

Pilot Statement

The pilot later stated that he may have inadvertently pulled the mixture control out too far, which would have killed the engine. This action, if confirmed, would explain the sudden loss of power during the go-around.

Probable cause

The pilot inadvertently pulled the mixture control too far, causing the engine to quit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Feb 1982 Cessna 172H accident near Mesquite, TX?

During a go-around after a long landing, the engine failed at 100 feet AGL. The pilot landed in a plowed field. No preimpact failure was found; the pilot stated he may have pulled the mixture control too far.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Feb 1982 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N2605L, operated by Michael D. Newman, at Mesquite, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot inadvertently pulled the mixture control too far, causing the engine to quit.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02014. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.