Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Night Visual Approach Leads to Forced Landing and Collision with Telephone Pole (N52665)

Tucson, AZ, US

On September 26, 1989, a Cessna 177RG (registration N52665) was involved in an aviation accident near Tucson, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF THE AIRCRAFT'S POWERPLANT CONTROLS. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR WAS THE PILOT'S LIMITED EXPERIENCE IN A CESSNA 177RG. 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 reported engine power loss during a night visual approach about 4-5 miles from the airport, resulting in a forced landing in a field and collision with a telephone pole. No pre-impact malfunctions were found, and the engine ran successfully after the accident.

Incident Overview

The pilot reported that during a night visual approach, approximately 4 to 5 miles from the airport, the engine lost power. In response, the pilot executed a forced landing into a field. The aircraft subsequently collided with a telephone pole during the landing.

Post-Accident Engine Examination

Investigators found no pre-impact related malfunctions in the engine. When the engine was test-run after the accident, it operated successfully.

Pilot's Statement

The pilot later stated that the engine had continued to operate throughout the approach and landing. The pilot had accumulated 5 hours of flight experience in the make and model of the aircraft.

Conclusion

No probable cause is stated in the source. The facts are as reported by the pilot and subsequent examination.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Sept 1989 Cessna 177RG accident near Tucson, AZ?

A pilot reported engine power loss during a night visual approach about 4-5 miles from the airport, resulting in a forced landing in a field and collision with a telephone pole. No pre-impact malfunctions were found, and the engine ran successfully after the accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Sept 1989 involved a Cessna 177RG, registration N52665, at Tucson, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF THE AIRCRAFT'S POWERPLANT CONTROLS. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR WAS THE PILOT'S LIMITED EXPERIENCE IN A CESSNA 177RG.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29424. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.