Casualties unknown

Pilot's VFR Flight Into IFR Conditions Leads to Engine Failure and Forced Landing (N3373B)

Spring, TX, US

On January 21, 1986, a Cessna 172G (registration N3373B) was involved in an aviation accident near Spring, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot continued VFR flight into IFR weather conditions. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a night cross-country flight, a pilot encountered IFR weather conditions near the destination, continued VFR, turned back due to low fuel, and experienced an engine failure three miles from the intended touchdown point. The aircraft descended through fog, made a forced landing on a road, impacted mailboxes, and came to rest in front of a residence.

Flight and Weather

A pilot was conducting an approximate four-hour, night, cross-country flight. During the last few moments of the flight, near the destination, the pilot encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IFR). The pilot continued to operate under visual flight rules (VFR) into those IFR weather conditions. Subsequently, the pilot turned back toward Houston Intercontinental Airport to land, as the aircraft was low on fuel.

Engine Failure and Descent

About three miles from the intended point of touchdown, the engine stopped. The pilot descended through fog and spotted a road. A forced landing was performed on that road.

Outcome

During the rollout of the forced landing, the aircraft impacted mail boxes and came to rest in the front of a residence.

Probable cause

The pilot continued VFR flight into IFR weather conditions

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jan 1986 Cessna 172G accident near Spring, TX?

During a night cross-country flight, a pilot encountered IFR weather conditions near the destination, continued VFR, turned back due to low fuel, and experienced an engine failure three miles from the intended touchdown point. The aircraft descended through fog, made a forced landing on a road, impacted mailboxes,…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jan 1986 involved a Cessna 172G, registration N3373B, at Spring, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot continued VFR flight into IFR weather conditions

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010110X00173. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.