Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Climbout Results in Golf Course Landing (N669ST)

Tulsa, OK, US

On February 12, 1988, a Cessna 152 (registration N669ST) was involved in an aviation accident near Tulsa, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the engine failure could not be determined due to insufficient evidence from the post-accident examination. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A sudden total loss of engine power during climbout after takeoff left the pilot with no suitable terrain for a safe landing, resulting in damage to the aircraft on a golf course.

What happened

The flight crew encountered an abrupt and complete cessation of engine power while the aircraft was climbing out following takeoff. With no nearby areas offering suitable terrain for a controlled emergency landing, the pilot was forced to execute an off-airport touchdown on a golf course. The impact resulted in significant damage to the airframe.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators conducted a thorough examination of both the aircraft and its engine components. Despite detailed inspections, the mechanical analysis failed to identify any specific defect or failure mode that would explain the sudden loss of power.

Probable cause

The cause of the engine failure could not be determined due to insufficient evidence from the post-accident examination.

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Feb 1988 Cessna 152 accident near Tulsa, OK?

A sudden total loss of engine power during climbout after takeoff left the pilot with no suitable terrain for a safe landing, resulting in damage to the aircraft on a golf course.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Feb 1988 involved a Cessna 152, registration N669ST, at Tulsa, OK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The cause of the engine failure could not be determined due to insufficient evidence from the post-accident examination.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25080. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.