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Casualties unknown

Engine Roughness Precedes Crash Short of Runway in Blacksburg (N7174M)

Spruce Pine, NC, US

On September 2, 1989, a Cessna 175 (registration N7174M) operated by Authur Bulter was involved in an aviation accident near Spruce Pine, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE POWER LOSS MAY HAVE BEEN DUE TO A STICKING VALVE(S). 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

A pilot experiencing engine roughness during a flight to Franklin made a precautionary landing in Blacksburg, Virginia. After maintenance, the engine ran normally but later failed again, leading to a crash 200 yards short of the runway.

Background

While en route to Franklin, the pilot experienced a rough-running engine and elected to land at an airport in Blacksburg, Virginia. During the subsequent maintenance action, all ignition leads were torqued. Following this work, the airplane operated normally.

Incident Sequence

Approximately one hour into the next leg of the flight, the engine again began running rough. The pilot decided to make another precautionary landing. During the approach, the airplane crashed 200 yards short of the runway.

According to reports, the airplane had a history of sticking valves. The pilot reportedly compared the failing engine's behavior to that of a sticking valve.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Sept 1989 Cessna 175 accident near Spruce Pine, NC?

A pilot experiencing engine roughness during a flight to Franklin made a precautionary landing in Blacksburg, Virginia. After maintenance, the engine ran normally but later failed again, leading to a crash 200 yards short of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Sept 1989 involved a Cessna 175, registration N7174M, operated by Authur Bulter, at Spruce Pine, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A LOSS OF POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE POWER LOSS MAY HAVE BEEN DUE TO A STICKING VALVE(S).

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29296. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.