No fatalities

Cessna 172 Power Failure Leads to Beach Landing and Substantial Damage (N6525J)

Montauk, NY, US

On September 30, 1985, a Cessna 172 (registration N6525J) was involved in an aviation accident near Montauk, NY. No fatalities were reported. 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 Cessna 172 experienced an engine power failure while cruising offshore, prompting an emergency landing on a beach. The aircraft struck a rock and swerved into the ocean, resulting in substantial damage but no injuries.

Incident

A Cessna 172 was cruising 3,000 feet off shore at an altitude of 600 feet above ground level over the ocean. The engine was operating at 1,900 RPM with the carburetor heat engaged when the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power.

Emergency Landing

The flight instructor executed an emergency landing on a beach. During touchdown, the left wing struck a rock, causing the aircraft to swerve into the ocean.

Aftermath

Both the pilot and the flight instructor exited the aircraft uninjured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. An on-site examination revealed usable fuel in both tanks. The cause of the engine failure was undetermined.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Sept 1985 Cessna 172 accident near Montauk, NY?

A Cessna 172 experienced an engine power failure while cruising offshore, prompting an emergency landing on a beach. The aircraft struck a rock and swerved into the ocean, resulting in substantial damage but no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Sept 1985 Cessna 172 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Sept 1985 involved a Cessna 172, registration N6525J, at Montauk, NY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37882. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.