Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Climb and Forced Landing (N734MC)

Homestead, FL, US

On February 25, 1989, a Cessna 172N (registration N734MC) operated by Savco Flying Co. was involved in an aviation accident near Homestead, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL STARVATION CAUSED BY A STICKING NEEDLE VALVE WHICH WAS SOFTENED BY CONTACT WITH AUTOMOTIVE FUEL PREVIOUSLY USED TO OPERATE THE ENGINE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During climb to cruise altitude, the engine lost power and stopped. Restart attempts failed. The aircraft nosed over during the forced landing. Post-accident testing revealed a sticking carburetor needle valve; the engine had previously used automotive fuel.

Incident Summary

While climbing to cruise altitude, the pilot reported that the engine lost power and then quit. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. The aircraft conducted a forced landing, and after touchdown, it nosed over.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, a temporary fuel supply was connected to the engine. Attempts to run the engine were unsuccessful unless the throttle was pumped. The carburetor was removed and disassembled, revealing a sticking needle valve. After the carburetor was reassembled and reinstalled, the engine operated normally.

Engine History

Prior to the aircraft's purchase by the flight school, the engine had been operated using automotive fuel.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Feb 1989 Cessna 172N accident near Homestead, FL?

During climb to cruise altitude, the engine lost power and stopped. Restart attempts failed. The aircraft nosed over during the forced landing. Post-accident testing revealed a sticking carburetor needle valve; the engine had previously used automotive fuel.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Feb 1989 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N734MC, operated by Savco Flying Co., at Homestead, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FUEL STARVATION CAUSED BY A STICKING NEEDLE VALVE WHICH WAS SOFTENED BY CONTACT WITH AUTOMOTIVE FUEL PREVIOUSLY USED TO OPERATE THE ENGINE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27764. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.