No fatalities

Engine Power Loss and Post-Landing Fire Following Forced Landing (N2405Q)

Munester, TX, US

On July 7, 1982, a Cessna 182J (registration N2405Q) operated by Donald J. Stephens was involved in an aviation accident near Munester, TX. No fatalities were reported. 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 flight, an engine lost power and occupants smelled gasoline. The pilot executed a successful forced landing. After stopping, the aircraft caught fire, destroying most of the fuel system and airframe.

Event Overview

During flight, the engine began losing power and both occupants detected a strong odor of gasoline. The pilot made a successful forced landing in a field. He stated that the engine lost all power on final approach. After coming to a stop, the pilot and passenger still smelled gas fumes and exited the aircraft. At about that time, they realized the plane had started to burn. The passenger, an A&P mechanic, stated that he saw burning fuel dripping from the engine cowling.

Damage and Investigation

Most of the aircraft and nearly all of the fuel system was demolished by fire. An inspection of the engine revealed that the crankshaft oil seal was out of position and the primer fitting-boss was broken off at the right elbow. However, investigators were unable to determine when the primer fitting had broken. No preimpact failures of the engine were verified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jul 1982 Cessna 182J accident near Munester, TX?

During flight, an engine lost power and occupants smelled gasoline. The pilot executed a successful forced landing. After stopping, the aircraft caught fire, destroying most of the fuel system and airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 Jul 1982 Cessna 182J accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jul 1982 involved a Cessna 182J, registration N2405Q, operated by Donald J. Stephens, at Munester, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03347. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.