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.
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.