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Dual Engine Failure Forces Ocean Landing (N67052)

Nantucket, MA, US

On August 13, 1992, a Beech 76 (registration N67052) operated by John F. Mannix was involved in an aviation accident near Nantucket, MA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO USE CARBURETOR HEAT, RESULTING IN CARBURETOR ICE AND LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND SUBSEQUENT FORCED LANDING IN THE OCEAN. 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
Aircraft registered N67052
Aircraft registered N67052. Photo: Aero Icarus from Zürich, Switzerland / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A pilot experienced failure of both engines while cruising at 2,500 feet, leading to a forced landing in the ocean. Investigation revealed salt water damage and potential carburetor icing conditions.

Incident

While cruising at 2,500 feet, the pilot of an airplane experienced a failure of the left engine. Shortly thereafter, the right engine also failed. The pilot made a quick attempt to restart the engines but was unsuccessful. He then focused on executing a forced landing in the ocean.

Recovery and Investigation

The airplane was recovered from the ocean. After replacement of the salt-water-damaged magnetos and fuel pump, the left engine was run from idle to full power using fuel that was in the tank, and it operated normally.

The pilot reported that he did not use carburetor heat during the flight. The reported temperature and dew point at the time were 66°F and 59°F, respectively. According to the FAA chart for carburetor icing probability, this temperature and dew point combination indicated a moderate chance of carburetor icing at cruise power.

Icing

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Aug 1992 Beech 76 accident near Nantucket, MA?

A pilot experienced failure of both engines while cruising at 2,500 feet, leading to a forced landing in the ocean. Investigation revealed salt water damage and potential carburetor icing conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Aug 1992 Beech 76 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Aug 1992 involved a Beech 76, registration N67052, operated by John F. Mannix, at Nantucket, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO USE CARBURETOR HEAT, RESULTING IN CARBURETOR ICE AND LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND SUBSEQUENT FORCED LANDING IN THE OCEAN.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15522. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.