On February 19, 1987, a Cessna 172 M (registration N20350) was involved in an aviation accident near San Juan, PR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An instructor pilot ditched an aircraft in San Juan Bay after the engine failed due to insufficient fuel, as revealed by post-crash examination of the intact fuel tanks.
Incident Narrative
The instructor pilot reported that the aircraft was flying over San Juan Bay at approximately 700 feet when the engine began to run roughly. At that time, the aircraft was about 2.5 to 3 miles from the airport. The engine then lost power completely but momentarily restarted. The pilot determined that the aircraft would not reach the airport, so a ditching was performed in the bay. The aircraft came to rest approximately 15 feet from the shore, in water about 4 to 5 feet deep.
Post-Crash Examination
Following the incident, the aircraft's fuel tanks were examined. The tanks were found to be intact. The examination revealed that they did not contain enough fuel to sustain engine operation.
What happened in the 19 Feb 1987 Cessna 172 M accident near San Juan, PR?
An instructor pilot ditched an aircraft in San Juan Bay after the engine failed due to insufficient fuel, as revealed by post-crash examination of the intact fuel tanks.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Feb 1987 involved a Cessna 172 M, registration N20350, at San Juan, PR.
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