Casualties unknown

Engine Failure and Nose-Over During Forced Landing Due to Fuel Exhaustion (N46723)

Carlsbad, NM, US

On February 24, 1984, a Cessna 152 (registration N46723) was involved in an aviation accident near Carlsbad, NM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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 student pilot made a forced landing after the engine lost power during a cross-country flight. The aircraft nosed over on soft terrain. Investigation revealed empty fuel tanks; the pilot had not visually checked fuel during preflight.

Accident Summary

During the final leg of a cross-country flight, the engine of the aircraft lost power, prompting the student pilot to execute a forced landing. The aircraft nosed over after touching down on soft terrain.

Pilot Actions

The pilot reported that he had not visually inspected the fuel tanks during the preflight inspection. He stated that the fuel gauge indicated approximately one-half full at the time the engine lost power.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination of the aircraft conducted after the accident found no fuel in the tanks or in the fuel lines leading to the carburetor.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Feb 1984 Cessna 152 accident near Carlsbad, NM?

A student pilot made a forced landing after the engine lost power during a cross-country flight. The aircraft nosed over on soft terrain. Investigation revealed empty fuel tanks; the pilot had not visually checked fuel during preflight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Feb 1984 involved a Cessna 152, registration N46723, at Carlsbad, NM.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38763. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.