Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Go-Around Leads to Runway Excursion (N71736)

Mammoth Lakes, CA, US

On April 18, 1987, a Cessna 182M (registration N71736) operated by Eight Ball Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Mammoth Lakes, CA. 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 recreational cross-country flight, the pilot initiated a go-around from 300 feet AGL. The engine produced only partial power after carburetor heat was turned off, leading to a descent. The aircraft landed beyond midfield, bounced, and ran off the runway into terrain.

Flight Details

The pilot was conducting a recreational cross-country flight and was on long final approach to the runway. To compensate for a crosswind, the pilot had added power. Prior to reaching short final, power was reduced again. Upon reaching the threshold, the aircraft was approximately 300 feet above ground level (AGL). The pilot then decided to perform a go-around.

Go-Around and Engine Power Issue

During the go-around, power was rapidly added and the carburetor heat was turned off. At this point, the engine developed only partial power. The pilot then re-engaged the carburetor heat. Despite this, the engine still did not produce sufficient power to maintain altitude, and the aircraft began descending at a rate of 50 to 100 feet per minute.

Landing and Runway Excursion

The pilot subsequently landed the aircraft beyond the midfield point of the runway. The aircraft bounced several times before running off the runway and colliding with the terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Apr 1987 Cessna 182M accident near Mammoth Lakes, CA?

During a recreational cross-country flight, the pilot initiated a go-around from 300 feet AGL. The engine produced only partial power after carburetor heat was turned off, leading to a descent. The aircraft landed beyond midfield, bounced, and ran off the runway into terrain.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Apr 1987 involved a Cessna 182M, registration N71736, operated by Eight Ball Flying Club, at Mammoth Lakes, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30718. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.