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Aircraft Ditches Offshore After Engine Failure (N2983U)

Atlantic Ocean, AO, US

On September 27, 1991, a Cessna 172H (registration N2983U) operated by Cummings, Robert J. was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO UNDETERMINED REASONS. 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

An aircraft that had not been flown for four months experienced an engine failure 14 miles offshore. The pilot ditched the aircraft, which inverted upon touchdown; the pilot was rescued by a nearby boat. The aircraft was not recovered, and the cause of the engine failure could not be determined.

Background

The aircraft had been idle for four months prior to the accident flight. No preflight maintenance or operational history was documented during this period.

Accident Sequence

The flight departed from its origin and proceeded offshore, deviating from a direct overland route due to reported air traffic congestion. When the aircraft was approximately 14 nautical miles from the coast, the engine ceased operation. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. Subsequently, the pilot executed a ditching maneuver. Upon contact with the water, the aircraft inverted. The pilot exited the inverted aircraft and was rescued by a boat that was operating in the vicinity.

Investigation

The aircraft was not recovered from the water, preventing a detailed examination of the engine or other systems. As a result, investigators were unable to determine the reason for the reported loss of engine power. No further determinations were made.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Sept 1991 Cessna 172H accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO?

An aircraft that had not been flown for four months experienced an engine failure 14 miles offshore. The pilot ditched the aircraft, which inverted upon touchdown; the pilot was rescued by a nearby boat. The aircraft was not recovered, and the cause of the engine failure could not be determined.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Sept 1991 Cessna 172H accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Sept 1991 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N2983U, operated by Cummings, Robert J., at Atlantic Ocean, AO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO UNDETERMINED REASONS.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18153. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.