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Forced Landing Practice Leads to Collision with Berm; Carburetor Discrepancies Found (N7965G)

Ramona, CA, US

On January 22, 1993, a Cessna 172L (registration N7965G) operated by Coastal Flyers, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Ramona, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER RELATED TO INADEQUATE AND IMPROPER MAINTENANCE PRACTICES CONCERNING THE CARBURETOR. 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 power-off forced landing practice, the aircraft undershot the runway. The instructor increased throttle but the engine did not respond, resulting in a collision with a berm. Investigation revealed numerous carburetor discrepancies.

Sequence of Events

Both pilots stated they were practicing power-off forced landings. As the aircraft began to undershoot the runway, the instructor increased the throttle. The engine did not respond. The aircraft subsequently collided with a berm short of the runway.

Investigation Findings

An examination of the engine found no abnormalities. However, the carburetor exhibited numerous discrepancies. It was determined to be the incorrect part for the engine, and the jets were incorrect for that carburetor. The float was incorrectly adjusted, and the needle valve was worn. Incorrect screws were installed in the throttle butterfly valve. Additionally, both the throttle shaft and its associated bushings were worn. The bowl-to-throttle body attachment screws were found loose.

The history of the carburetor could not be determined from an examination of the aircraft maintenance records.

Maintenance error

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jan 1993 Cessna 172L accident near Ramona, CA?

During power-off forced landing practice, the aircraft undershot the runway. The instructor increased throttle but the engine did not respond, resulting in a collision with a berm. Investigation revealed numerous carburetor discrepancies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jan 1993 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N7965G, operated by Coastal Flyers, Inc., at Ramona, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER RELATED TO INADEQUATE AND IMPROPER MAINTENANCE PRACTICES CONCERNING THE CARBURETOR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11718. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.