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Engine Power Loss During Cruise Leads to Emergency Landing and Nose-Over (N6812X)

Pahokee, FL, US

On February 3, 1990, a Cessna 172A (registration N6812X) was involved in an aviation accident near Pahokee, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AM UNDETERMINED REASON. 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 adding 23.3 gallons of fuel and testing for contamination before a cross-country flight. During cruise, the engine lost power. An emergency landing resulted in the aircraft nosing over. Post-accident checks found no fuel contamination, and the engine ran normally. Icing probability charts indicated conditions favorable for induction system icing.

Preflight and Fuel Check

Before departing on a cross-country flight, the pilot added 23.3 gallons of fuel. He tested each fuel tank and the gasolator for contamination; none was found.

In-Flight Power Loss

During cruise flight, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful.

Emergency Landing

During the subsequent emergency landing, the aircraft nosed over.

Post-Accident Examination

The fuel system was checked for contaminants, and none were found. The engine operated normally during a post-accident engine run.

Icing Conditions

According to icing probability charts, conditions were favorable for induction system icing at rated power with a float type carburetor.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Feb 1990 Cessna 172A accident near Pahokee, FL?

A pilot reported adding 23.3 gallons of fuel and testing for contamination before a cross-country flight. During cruise, the engine lost power. An emergency landing resulted in the aircraft nosing over. Post-accident checks found no fuel contamination, and the engine ran normally. Icing probability charts indicated…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Feb 1990 involved a Cessna 172A, registration N6812X, at Pahokee, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AM UNDETERMINED REASON.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22610. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.