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Loss of Engine Power Leads to Forced Landing and Nose-Over on Hilly Terrain (N5523L)

Petersburg, OH, US

On March 1, 1993, a Cessna 152 (registration N5523L) operated by Stensin Aviation, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Petersburg, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE SHORT, SOFT, HILLY TERRAIN CONDITION IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a return flight from instruction, a sudden power drop occurred. The CFI performed a forced landing on soft, hilly terrain, resulting in the airplane nosing over. Post-accident examination found no mechanical issues, but conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

Accident Sequence

While returning to the airport following an instructional flight, the engine experienced a sudden power drop of 1300 to 1400 RPM, according to the certified flight instructor (CFI). The CFI proceeded through the emergency checklist but could not maintain altitude. When the left magneto was selected, the engine lost all power. The CFI executed a forced landing on short, soft, and hilly terrain, during which the airplane nosed over.

Examination Findings

An examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical malfunctions. Both magnetos were functionally tested and met the manufacturer's tolerances. The flap selector switch was found in the fully extended position, but the flaps themselves were in the retracted position. The carburetor heat control was found in a midway position.

Environmental Conditions

The temperature and dew point were 38°F and 20°F, respectively. According to carburetor icing probability charts, these conditions were conducive to visible icing at glide and cruise power.

Related events

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Mar 1993 Cessna 152 accident near Petersburg, OH?

During a return flight from instruction, a sudden power drop occurred. The CFI performed a forced landing on soft, hilly terrain, resulting in the airplane nosing over. Post-accident examination found no mechanical issues, but conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Mar 1993 involved a Cessna 152, registration N5523L, operated by Stensin Aviation, Inc, at Petersburg, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE SHORT, SOFT, HILLY TERRAIN CONDITION IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11916. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.