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Casualties unknown

Landing Short of Runway Due to Carburetor Ice (N2539V)

Victoria, TX, US

On May 13, 1984, a Cessna 170 (registration N2539V) was involved in an aviation accident near Victoria, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to prevent carburetor ice, which resulted in an engine failure during the approach phase. 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 experienced engine failure during final approach due to suspected carburetor ice, resulting in a landing short of the runway.

What happened

The pilot reported that while conducting a long final approach, power was reduced to manage the descent. Shortly after reducing power, the throttle was applied again, but the engine failed to respond. The aircraft subsequently landed approximately 100 yards short of Runway 17.

The investigation

Post-accident analysis focused on the mechanical response of the engine during the critical phase of flight. The lack of power application despite throttle input indicated a significant interruption in engine operation.

Findings

The pilot attributed the lack of engine response to carburetor ice, which likely restricted fuel flow and caused the engine to fail during the transition from descent to landing configuration.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to prevent carburetor ice, which resulted in an engine failure during the approach phase.
Engine failureIcing

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 May 1984 Cessna 170 accident near Victoria, TX?

A pilot experienced engine failure during final approach due to suspected carburetor ice, resulting in a landing short of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 May 1984 involved a Cessna 170, registration N2539V, at Victoria, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to prevent carburetor ice, which resulted in an engine failure during the approach phase.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39589. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.