Casualties unknown

Engine Failure and Stall During Landing; Fuel Contamination Detected (N1777M)

11 Mi. S. OF DU, AZ, US

On September 18, 1982, a Cessna 182P (registration N1777M) operated by Lazy B Cattle Co. was involved in an aviation accident near 11 Mi. S. OF DU, AZ. 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
Aircraft registered N1777M
Aircraft registered N1777M. Photo: Anna Zvereva from Tallinn, Estonia / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The engine of an aircraft quit at about 60 feet above the runway. The aircraft stalled just before touchdown while maneuvering to avoid gullies. Fuel samples showed automobile fuel and water contamination.

Accident Sequence

The aircraft was on approach when the engine ceased operation at approximately 60 feet above the runway surface. The pilot was maneuvering to avoid some gullies when the aircraft stalled just before touchdown.

Fuel Contamination Investigation

On July 9, 1982, the pilot had purchased 1,200 gallons of regular unleaded automobile fuel for use in the aircraft. Prior to this purchase, the pilot had used aviation fuel. Following the accident, fuel samples were taken from the storage tanks and water filters at the pilot's ranch. These samples revealed the presence of automobile fuel and water contamination. A sample obtained from the carburetor bowl was found to consist of 95% water.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Sept 1982 Cessna 182P accident near 11 Mi. S. OF DU, AZ?

The engine of an aircraft quit at about 60 feet above the runway. The aircraft stalled just before touchdown while maneuvering to avoid gullies. Fuel samples showed automobile fuel and water contamination.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Sept 1982 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N1777M, operated by Lazy B Cattle Co., at 11 Mi. S. OF DU, AZ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04761. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.