Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Cruise Flight Leads to Forced Landing and Collision with Trees (N2646R)

Carefree, AZ, US

On May 6, 1992, a Cessna 182K (registration N2646R) operated by Raymond E. Ward was involved in an aviation accident near Carefree, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE AND THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO ENSURE THAT ADEQUATE ENGINE OIL WAS ON BOARD PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. 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

During cruise flight, the engine sputtered and quit. The pilot performed a forced landing on a dirt road, colliding with trees and a berm. Examination revealed the engine seized with no oil in the sump and metal particles in the oil screen.

Accident Narrative

The pilot reported that the aircraft had just leveled off into cruise flight when the engine suddenly began to sputter and run roughly, then it quit altogether. The pilot executed a forced landing on a dirt road. During the landing roll-out, the aircraft collided with trees and a berm.

Examination Findings

FAA inspectors examined the aircraft and found the engine seized. No oil was present in the engine sump. The oil screen contained a significant amount of metal particles. The oil quick drain was in the closed position and was fully functional. No oil deposits were found on the exterior of the aircraft, and no evidence of oil leakage was noted on the surrounding soil.

The last recorded inspection or engine maintenance entry in the logbooks was dated April 13, 1991.

Pilot Information

The pilot did not hold a current medical certificate at the time of the accident. The last medical certificate on record was a third class medical dated August 5, 1985.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 May 1992 Cessna 182K accident near Carefree, AZ?

During cruise flight, the engine sputtered and quit. The pilot performed a forced landing on a dirt road, colliding with trees and a berm. Examination revealed the engine seized with no oil in the sump and metal particles in the oil screen.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 May 1992 involved a Cessna 182K, registration N2646R, operated by Raymond E. Ward, at Carefree, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

INADEQUATE AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE AND THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO ENSURE THAT ADEQUATE ENGINE OIL WAS ON BOARD PRIOR TO DEPARTURE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14681. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.