Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Partial Power Loss During Instrument Approach in Heavy Rain (N55461)

Osage Beach, MO, US

On November 3, 1983, a Cessna 172 (registration N55461) operated by Air Pilot Aviation Charter was involved in an aviation accident near Osage Beach, MO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

A pilot reported partial engine power loss during an instrument approach in heavy rain. After landing too fast, the aircraft hydroplaned, ran off the runway, hit a ditch, and nosed over.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that while conducting an instrument approach in heavy rain, there was a partial loss of engine power. The pilot applied carburetor heat, but the engine still did not provide full power. Despite the power issue, the pilot continued the VOR/DME approach.

Approach and Landing

Upon sighting the runway, the pilot determined that the aircraft was too high to land. The pilot then entered a downwind leg and landed with full flaps on Runway 32. The pilot stated that the aircraft was too fast, and after touchdown, the aircraft began hydroplaning. Subsequently, the aircraft continued off the end of the runway, struck a ditch, and nosed over.

Decision Against Go-Around

The pilot reported that he decided not to execute a go-around because he considered the engine unreliable and noted high obstructions off the end of the runway.

Weather Conditions

The pilot reported the wind as from 070 degrees at 6 knots. Approximately 55 miles east at Rolla, Missouri, the weather at 1148 CDT was: 600 scattered, 6000 overcast, visibility 5 miles with fog, wind 160 degrees at 10 knots, temperature 64 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point 62 degrees Fahrenheit.

Carburetor Icing Information

According to icing probability charts, serious carburetor icing could be encountered at cruise power with float-type carburetors.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Nov 1983 Cessna 172 accident near Osage Beach, MO?

A pilot reported partial engine power loss during an instrument approach in heavy rain. After landing too fast, the aircraft hydroplaned, ran off the runway, hit a ditch, and nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Nov 1983 involved a Cessna 172, registration N55461, operated by Air Pilot Aviation Charter, at Osage Beach, MO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45158. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.