On November 3, 1990, a Cessna 172 (registration N739VN) operated by Mistwood Aviation Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Scott, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE MIXTURE CONTROL WAS SET INCORRECTLY RESULTING IN FUEL STARVATION, AND THE CHECK LIST WAS NOT FOLLOWED BY THE CFI/PIC. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a night IFR training flight, the engine failed to respond to throttle input on final approach. The CFI took over and attempted an emergency landing in an adjacent field, resulting in a nose over. Investigation found the fuel mixture control in idle cutoff.
Incident
A night training flight conducted under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) experienced an engine malfunction during the final approach phase. When the pilot added throttle to maintain the approach, the engine did not respond as expected. The Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) assumed control of the aircraft and maneuvered toward an adjacent field, as the airplane was short of the runway. The subsequent emergency landing resulted in the aircraft nosing over.
Investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the fuel mixture control was found in the idle cutoff position. No mechanical defects, malfunctions, or fuel shortages were discovered. An engine run-up performed after the accident operated normally.
What happened in the 3 Nov 1990 Cessna 172 accident near Fort Scott, KS?
During a night IFR training flight, the engine failed to respond to throttle input on final approach. The CFI took over and attempted an emergency landing in an adjacent field, resulting in a nose over. Investigation found the fuel mixture control in idle cutoff.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Nov 1990 involved a Cessna 172, registration N739VN, operated by Mistwood Aviation Inc., at Fort Scott, KS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE MIXTURE CONTROL WAS SET INCORRECTLY RESULTING IN FUEL STARVATION, AND THE CHECK LIST WAS NOT FOLLOWED BY THE CFI/PIC.
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