Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Climb Leads to Forced Landing and Nose-Over (N182AD)

Casper, WY, US

On August 8, 1988, a Cessna 182P (registration N182AD) operated by John R. Forehand was involved in an aviation accident near Casper, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A stuck float in the carburetor resulted in a fuel leak, causing the engine to lose power. 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

After an annual inspection, the engine lost power as the aircraft climbed to cruise. Restart attempts failed, and the aircraft was landed on rough terrain, nosing over. Post-accident inspection revealed a fuel leak from a carburetor with a stuck float.

Event Description

The aircraft had recently undergone its annual inspection. Shortly after departure, while climbing to a cruising altitude, the engine abruptly lost power. The pilot made several attempts to restart the engine, but all were unsuccessful. With the aircraft unable to maintain altitude, a landing was made on rough and rocky terrain. During the landing roll, the aircraft nosed over.

Post-Accident Findings

Following the accident, the engine was inspected. A significant fuel leak was discovered at the carburetor. The carburetor was removed and replaced. After installation of the new carburetor, an engine run was performed, and no anomalies were detected. Examination of the original carburetor revealed indications of a stuck float.

Probable Cause

The investigation determined that the engine power loss was caused by a stuck float in the carburetor, leading to a fuel leak and subsequent engine failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Aug 1988 Cessna 182P accident near Casper, WY?

After an annual inspection, the engine lost power as the aircraft climbed to cruise. Restart attempts failed, and the aircraft was landed on rough terrain, nosing over. Post-accident inspection revealed a fuel leak from a carburetor with a stuck float.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Aug 1988 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N182AD, operated by John R. Forehand, at Casper, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A stuck float in the carburetor resulted in a fuel leak, causing the engine to lose power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26541. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.