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Casualties unknown

Engine Loses Partial Power After Liftoff, Airplane Strikes Trees After Runway Overrun (N2961X)

Elkhart, IN, US

On December 9, 1991, a Cessna 177 (registration N2961X) operated by Frank G. Fisher was involved in an aviation accident near Elkhart, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S FAILURE TO USE CARBURETOR HEAT. A FACTOR TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE CARBURETOR ICING CONDITIONS. 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 pilot reported an engine partial power loss shortly after liftoff. After landing, the airplane overran the runway and struck trees. Post-accident engine examination revealed no mechanical anomalies.

Accident Sequence

According to the pilot, the engine lost partial power shortly after liftoff while the airplane was still over the runway. The pilot subsequently landed on the runway but was unable to stop before overrunning the end and striking trees.

Environmental Conditions

At the time of the event, the temperature and dew point reported at South Bend, Indiana, were 39 degrees and 33 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. According to icing probability charts, these temperatures are conducive to the formation of carburetor ice.

Post-Accident Examination

The engine was examined after the accident and was successfully run with no mechanical anomalies noted.

Icing

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Dec 1991 Cessna 177 accident near Elkhart, IN?

A pilot reported an engine partial power loss shortly after liftoff. After landing, the airplane overran the runway and struck trees. Post-accident engine examination revealed no mechanical anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Dec 1991 involved a Cessna 177, registration N2961X, operated by Frank G. Fisher, at Elkhart, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S FAILURE TO USE CARBURETOR HEAT. A FACTOR TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE CARBURETOR ICING CONDITIONS.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18570. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.