Casualties unknown

Engine Failure After 100-Hour Inspection Results in Off-Airport Landing and Nose-Over (N4946G)

Swainsboro, GA, US

On October 23, 1987, a Cessna 172P (registration N4946G) was involved in an aviation accident near Swainsboro, GA. 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

Aircraft returning from 100-hour inspection experienced engine failure during descent. Off-airport landing attempted, landing gear damaged, aircraft nosed over. Examination found no fuel in carburetor or gascolator, but fuel in tanks and system operable.

Incident Summary

The aircraft was being returned to its home base after completing a 100-hour inspection. According to the pilot, the engine stopped while descending prior to entering the traffic pattern. An off-airport landing was attempted. During the landing, the landing gear sustained extensive damage, and the aircraft nosed over.

Examination Findings

Following the incident, examination of the engine revealed no fuel present in the carburetor or the gascolator. However, fuel was found in the tanks, and no blockages were identified in the fuel system. Additionally, activating the fuel selector produced fuel flow to the system.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Oct 1987 Cessna 172P accident near Swainsboro, GA?

Aircraft returning from 100-hour inspection experienced engine failure during descent. Off-airport landing attempted, landing gear damaged, aircraft nosed over. Examination found no fuel in carburetor or gascolator, but fuel in tanks and system operable.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Oct 1987 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N4946G, at Swainsboro, GA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32263. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.