FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Low Pass Forced Landing (N5101F)

Folsom, NM, US

On August 25, 1992, a Cessna 172F (registration N5101F) operated by Sheppard Afb Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Folsom, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: CARBURETOR HEAT NOT USED AND IMPROPER USE OF THROTTLE AND MIXTURE CONTROL. A FACTOR WAS: THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR A FORCED LANDING. 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

Pilot descended to 500 feet AGL for a low pass over his parents' ranch, did not apply carburetor heat before power reduction. Engine lost power when throttle advanced, forced landing resulted in nose-over after hitting boulder.

Sequence of Events

A pilot descended from 1500 feet to 500 feet above ground level (AGL) to perform a low pass over his parents' ranch. Prior to reducing power for the descent, he did not apply carburetor heat. As he leveled off, he advanced the mixture control to full rich and advanced the throttle. The engine then lost power.

Forced Landing and Post-Impact

Due to the proximity of terrain, no engine restart was attempted. The pilot executed a forced landing in an open field. During the rollout, the nose wheel struck a boulder and was sheared off, causing the airplane to nose over.

Examination and Testing

Post-accident examination and tests disclosed no discrepancies with the carburetor, oil screen, spark plugs, fuel, or oil. The engine was subsequently functionally tested and operated satisfactorily.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Aug 1992 Cessna 172F accident near Folsom, NM?

Pilot descended to 500 feet AGL for a low pass over his parents' ranch, did not apply carburetor heat before power reduction. Engine lost power when throttle advanced, forced landing resulted in nose-over after hitting boulder.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Aug 1992 involved a Cessna 172F, registration N5101F, operated by Sheppard Afb Aero Club, at Folsom, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

CARBURETOR HEAT NOT USED AND IMPROPER USE OF THROTTLE AND MIXTURE CONTROL. A FACTOR WAS: THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR A FORCED LANDING.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15390. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.