On March 30, 1991, a Cessna 172N (registration N2899E) operated by Frenchmen's Bay Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Bar Harbor, ME. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the engine power loss could not be determined as no mechanical malfunction was identified. 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.
A pilot experienced intermittent engine power loss during descent, resulting in a controlled ditching in a harbor. The pilot and passenger survived after clinging to the aircraft for 45 minutes.
What happened
The pilot was descending toward his destination when the engine suddenly lost power. He attempted to recover by applying full throttle, but there was no change in engine performance. He then applied carburetor heat, which restored power for approximately one minute before it was lost again. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot executed a ditching in a harbor.
The pilot was not wearing a shoulder harness at the time of the incident. Despite this, both the pilot and the passenger were able to exit the airplane and cling to the aircraft until they were rescued approximately 45 minutes later.
The investigation
An examination of the engine and related systems revealed no mechanical defects or anomalies that would have accounted for the loss of power. No reason was found for the intermittent failure during flight.
Probable cause
The cause of the engine power loss could not be determined as no mechanical malfunction was identified.
What happened in the 30 Mar 1991 Cessna 172N accident near Bar Harbor, ME?
A pilot experienced intermittent engine power loss during descent, resulting in a controlled ditching in a harbor. The pilot and passenger survived after clinging to the aircraft for 45 minutes.
Were there any fatalities in the 30 Mar 1991 Cessna 172N accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Mar 1991 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N2899E, operated by Frenchmen's Bay Flying Club, at Bar Harbor, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The cause of the engine power loss could not be determined as no mechanical malfunction was identified.
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