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Casualties unknown

Engine Failure and Crash in Frozen Tundra During Cruise Flight (N5468C)

Healy, AK, US

On November 7, 1990, a Cessna 170A (registration N5468C) operated by Bruce A. Rasmussen was involved in an aviation accident near Healy, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft due to strong winds during an emergency landing attempt following a loss of engine power in cruise flight. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power while cruising, attributing the issue to carburetor icing despite applying heat. The attempt to land on a nearby road failed due to strong winds, resulting in a crash on the frozen tundra with no causal mechanical defects found.

What happened

The pilot reported experiencing a significant loss of engine revolutions per minute (RPM) accompanied by rough running while the aircraft was in cruise flight. Suspecting carburetor icing as the root cause, the pilot applied carburetor heat to resolve the issue; however, this action failed to correct the problem. As the engine subsequently lost all power, the pilot attempted to execute an emergency landing on a nearby road. Due to strong wind conditions, the aircraft was unable to maintain control or approach the surface safely and crashed onto the frozen tundra.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft for any mechanical issues that might have contributed to the power loss. Despite the thorough examination, no problems were found that could be considered causal to the engine failure.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft due to strong winds during an emergency landing attempt following a loss of engine power in cruise flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Nov 1990 Cessna 170A accident near Healy, AK?

A pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power while cruising, attributing the issue to carburetor icing despite applying heat. The attempt to land on a nearby road failed due to strong winds, resulting in a crash on the frozen tundra with no causal mechanical defects found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Nov 1990 involved a Cessna 170A, registration N5468C, operated by Bruce A. Rasmussen, at Healy, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft due to strong winds during an emergency landing attempt following a loss of engine power in cruise flight.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24556. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.