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Casualties unknown

Forced Landing Near Coronado After Engine Power Loss (N2665U)

Albuquerque, NM, US

On August 25, 1983, a Cessna 172D (registration N2665U) was involved in an aviation accident near Albuquerque, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The specific reason for the engine power loss was not determined, but weather conditions conducive to carburetor ice were noted as a contributing factor. 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 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot was forced to land in desert terrain near Coronado after the engine lost power. The aircraft touched down short of the runway, resulting in head injuries for the pilot.

What happened

The pilot reported that the engine lost power, necessitating a forced landing on desert terrain. The aircraft touched down short of the runway near the Coronado airport. During the incident, the pilot sustained head injuries.

The investigation

Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the power loss but were unable to determine the specific mechanical or operational reason for the failure. However, environmental conditions were noted as potentially significant factors. At the time of the event, the temperature was 79 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 53 degrees Fahrenheit.

Findings

The weather conditions, specifically the relationship between the temperature and dew point, were conducive to carburetor ice formation. While the exact cause of the power loss remained undetermined, these atmospheric conditions present a known risk for engine performance issues in aircraft equipped with carburetors.

Probable cause

The specific reason for the engine power loss was not determined, but weather conditions conducive to carburetor ice were noted as a contributing factor.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Aug 1983 Cessna 172D accident near Albuquerque, NM?

A pilot was forced to land in desert terrain near Coronado after the engine lost power. The aircraft touched down short of the runway, resulting in head injuries for the pilot.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Aug 1983 involved a Cessna 172D, registration N2665U, at Albuquerque, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The specific reason for the engine power loss was not determined, but weather conditions conducive to carburetor ice were noted as a contributing factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44178. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.