Casualties unknown

Power Loss During Cruise Descent Leads to Gear Damage in Road Landing (N73562)

Houston, TX, US

On September 6, 1982, a Cessna 172M (registration N73562) operated by Jon P. Steiger was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. 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

A pilot experienced unresponsive throttle after a cruise descent, forcing a crosswind landing on a construction road. The aircraft struck a canister, shearing off the left main landing gear.

Incident Overview

During a descent from 1800 to 1500 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot adjusted the throttle to maintain airspeed and altitude. However, the throttle became unresponsive; it could be pushed in and pulled out without any change in engine power.

Landing and Impact

The pilot executed a crosswind landing on a road that was under construction. While maneuvering to avoid debris on the road, the aircraft struck a canister, causing the left main landing gear to be sheared off.

Pilot Observations

The pilot reported that the weather was clear, with wind from the south at 10 knots, gusting to 15 knots. Approximately 20 miles away, a weather station recorded wind from 110 degrees at 10 knots and a temperature of 88 degrees Fahrenheit. The pilot speculated that the carburetor may have frozen, but this was not verified.

Aftermath

No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or subsequent actions were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Sept 1982 Cessna 172M accident near Houston, TX?

A pilot experienced unresponsive throttle after a cruise descent, forcing a crosswind landing on a construction road. The aircraft struck a canister, shearing off the left main landing gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Sept 1982 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N73562, operated by Jon P. Steiger, at Houston, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04591. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.