Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Landing Leads to Collision with Utility Pole and Fence (N8849T)

Anchorage, AK, US

On January 28, 1990, a Cessna 182 (registration N8849T) operated by David Mock was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION, DUE TO AN INADEQUATE SUPPLY OF FUEL. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE OBSTRUCTIONS (UTILITY POLE, POWER LINE & FENCE) IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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

After adding fuel to about 25 gallons and using extra to free the aircraft from snow, the aircraft experienced an engine power loss on base leg to land. The emergency landing resulted in striking a utility pole, power line, and fence.

Flight Details

Before the flight, 15 gallons of fuel were added to bring the total fuel onboard to approximately 25 gallons. Due to snow on the ground, more fuel than normal was consumed to free the aircraft from its stuck position. The aircraft then proceeded to the destination airport.

Engine Power Loss

While on a base leg to land, the engine lost power. The pilot subsequently executed an emergency landing.

Emergency Landing

During the emergency landing, the aircraft struck a utility pole, a power line, and a fence.

Fuel Examination

After the accident, approximately 2-3/4 gallons of fuel were found remaining in the aircraft. It was noted that about 3-1/2 gallons of the fuel supply were considered usable only in level flight.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jan 1990 Cessna 182 accident near Anchorage, AK?

After adding fuel to about 25 gallons and using extra to free the aircraft from snow, the aircraft experienced an engine power loss on base leg to land. The emergency landing resulted in striking a utility pole, power line, and fence.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jan 1990 involved a Cessna 182, registration N8849T, operated by David Mock, at Anchorage, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION, DUE TO AN INADEQUATE SUPPLY OF FUEL. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE OBSTRUCTIONS (UTILITY POLE, POWER LINE & FENCE) IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22356. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.