FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Forced Landing Following Engine Power Loss on Departure (N65418)

Miami, FL, US

On January 17, 1991, a Cessna 152 (registration N65418) operated by Silver Express, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Miami, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE RECORD KEEPING BY THE OPERATION, AND FAILURE OF THE CFI TO FOLLOW PROCEDURES AND DIRECTIVES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During departure, the engine failed to develop power above 1,200 RPM, leading to a forced landing on a road. The aircraft nosed over after the nose gear entered a ditch.

Preflight and Departure

Three days before the accident flight, the vacuum pump had been removed and had not been reinstalled. The certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student conducted a preflight inspection of the aircraft and noted no discrepancies. The engine start and run-up prior to departure were reported as normal.

The Accident

The flight departed. The CFI stated that the engine would not develop power greater than 1,200 RPM. During the forced landing on a road, the nose gear traveled into a ditch, and the aircraft nosed over.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the aircraft at the accident site revealed that oil coated the bottom of the fuselage.

Maintenance error

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Jan 1991 Cessna 152 accident near Miami, FL?

During departure, the engine failed to develop power above 1,200 RPM, leading to a forced landing on a road. The aircraft nosed over after the nose gear entered a ditch.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Jan 1991 involved a Cessna 152, registration N65418, operated by Silver Express, Inc., at Miami, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE RECORD KEEPING BY THE OPERATION, AND FAILURE OF THE CFI TO FOLLOW PROCEDURES AND DIRECTIVES.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16354. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.