Casualties unknown

Power Loss After Power Reapplication Leads to Forced Landing (N4690C)

Ronan, MT, US

On June 25, 1992, a Cessna A185F (registration N4690C) operated by Mikkelsen, Alan & Lynette was involved in an aviation accident near Ronan, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S OPERATION WITH KNOWN DEFICIENCIES IN EQUIPMENT AND ERRATIC OPERATION OF THE FUEL CONTROL SYSTEM. A FACTOR CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: SOFT TERRAIN. 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 experienced a power surge and subsequent loss after reapplying power following a spiral descent, resulting in a forced landing on soft terrain. The left main gear separated during the landing roll. The fuel control metering unit had been repaired in April 1991.

Incident Overview

A pilot, who had previously encountered power loss upon reapplying power after idle operations following landing on several occasions, discussed the symptoms with a mechanic. It was decided that the fuel control system required adjustment. The pilot then initiated a flight to the mechanic's facility to carry out the intended maintenance work.

Sequence of Events

Shortly after departing for the mechanic's airstrip, and at the completion of a 360-degree spiralling descent to lose altitude prior to landing, the pilot reapplied power. The engine surged and then lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing on soft terrain. During the landing roll, the left main gear began to dig into the soft ground, causing it to separate from the aircraft.

Maintenance History

The fuel control metering unit had been repaired in April 1991, prior to the aircraft's sale and relocation from New Mexico to Montana in November 1991.

Conclusion

The incident involved a power loss after reapplying power during a descent, leading to a forced landing with gear separation. No further details are available from the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Jun 1992 Cessna A185F accident near Ronan, MT?

A pilot experienced a power surge and subsequent loss after reapplying power following a spiral descent, resulting in a forced landing on soft terrain. The left main gear separated during the landing roll. The fuel control metering unit had been repaired in April 1991.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Jun 1992 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N4690C, operated by Mikkelsen, Alan & Lynette, at Ronan, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S OPERATION WITH KNOWN DEFICIENCIES IN EQUIPMENT AND ERRATIC OPERATION OF THE FUEL CONTROL SYSTEM. A FACTOR CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: SOFT TERRAIN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15010. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.