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Student Pilot Practicing Slow Flight Lands on Beach After Engine Falter (N733PB)

Saipan, CQ

On November 26, 1991, a Cessna 172M (registration N733PB) operated by Pacific Island Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Saipan, CQ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO CARBURETOR ICING AND THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO CORRECTLY USE CARBURETOR HEAT. 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

A 100-hour student pilot practicing slow flight for his private pilot test experienced an engine falter when adding power. He aborted a golf course landing due to people and instead landed on a beach, where the aircraft hit rocks and ground during flare.

Incident Overview

A student pilot with 100 hours of flight time was conducting airwork in preparation for his private pilot flight test, scheduled for the following day. According to the operator, the pilot reported that he was practicing slow flight maneuvers when the engine faltered as he added power to exit the maneuver.

Landing Decision and Impact

The pilot initially decided to land on a nearby golf course. However, upon observing many people on the fairways, he elected to divert to a nearby beach for landing. During the landing flare, the aircraft collided with rocks and the ground.

Weather Conditions and Carburetor Icing

The official weather observation for the accident time, recorded at Saipan, listed a temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit and a dew point of 74 degrees Fahrenheit. Examination of a carburetor icing probability chart indicated that these temperature and dew point values fall within an area defined as 'serious icing glide power.'

Engine failureIcing

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Nov 1991 Cessna 172M accident near Saipan, CQ?

A 100-hour student pilot practicing slow flight for his private pilot test experienced an engine falter when adding power. He aborted a golf course landing due to people and instead landed on a beach, where the aircraft hit rocks and ground during flare.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Nov 1991 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N733PB, operated by Pacific Island Aviation, at Saipan, CQ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO CARBURETOR ICING AND THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO CORRECTLY USE CARBURETOR HEAT.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18480. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.