Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss and Forced Landing in IMC (N2911B)

Cedar City, UT, US

On December 20, 1990, a Beech D35 (registration N2911B) operated by Ferguson, Michael D. was involved in an aviation accident near Cedar City, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO INDUCTION SYSTEM ICING. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITION, AND A BLOCKED INDUCTION AIR FILTER. 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

During a cross-country flight in instrument meteorological conditions with visible snow and ice crystals, the engine lost power. The pilot performed a night emergency landing in an open, rough field, resulting in aircraft damage.

Accident Overview

A cross-country flight encountered engine trouble when the engine began to miss and eventually lost power. The aircraft was operating in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) with visible snow and ice crystals present.

Sequence of Events

After the engine lost power, the pilot conducted an emergency landing at night. The landing was made in an open, rough field. During the landing roll, the aircraft sustained damage.

Post-Crash Inspection

A post-crash inspection of the engine revealed ice accumulation above the throttle valve and below the discharge nozzle in the center of the carburetor throat at the intake manifold. The carburetor was equipped with an alternate air system.

Additional Information

No other details about the aircraft, occupants, or operator were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Dec 1990 Beech D35 accident near Cedar City, UT?

During a cross-country flight in instrument meteorological conditions with visible snow and ice crystals, the engine lost power. The pilot performed a night emergency landing in an open, rough field, resulting in aircraft damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Dec 1990 involved a Beech D35, registration N2911B, operated by Ferguson, Michael D., at Cedar City, UT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO INDUCTION SYSTEM ICING. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITION, AND A BLOCKED INDUCTION AIR FILTER.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24826. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.