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Casualties unknown

Total Loss of Engine Power at 500 Feet Results in Tree Strike (N1895Q)

Limington, ME, US

On March 25, 1990, a Cessna 182-K (registration N1895Q) operated by John F. Daniels was involved in an aviation accident near Limington, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL STARVATION, DUE TO CARBURETOR CONTAMINATION, WHICH RESULTED IN A FORCED LANDING IN UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. 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

At 500 feet AGL, an airplane experienced total engine power loss. The pilot turned back but struck a tree. FAA examination found sludge and sediment in the carburetor bowl.

Incident Overview

During a flight, at an altitude of 500 feet above ground level (AGL), the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot initiated a turn back toward the airport but was unable to glide to the runway. The airplane subsequently struck a tree.

Fuel and Pre-Flight Details

Prior to takeoff, 15 gallons of fuel were added to each fuel tank, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Investigative Findings

An examination of the engine by the FAA revealed no discrepancies, with the exception of the carburetor. A disassembly of the carburetor showed sludge and sediment present in the bowl.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Mar 1990 Cessna 182-K accident near Limington, ME?

At 500 feet AGL, an airplane experienced total engine power loss. The pilot turned back but struck a tree. FAA examination found sludge and sediment in the carburetor bowl.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Mar 1990 involved a Cessna 182-K, registration N1895Q, operated by John F. Daniels, at Limington, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FUEL STARVATION, DUE TO CARBURETOR CONTAMINATION, WHICH RESULTED IN A FORCED LANDING IN UNSUITABLE TERRAIN.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22810. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.