Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing in Field Near Seneca (N5812A)

Seneca, SC, US

On July 2, 1993, a Cessna 172 (registration N5812A) operated by Steele, William B. was involved in an aviation accident near Seneca, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT PLANNING WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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

While returning to Seneca, South Carolina, after two en route stops, the engine lost power and the pilot performed a forced landing in a field. Witnesses reported the pilot had refueled the previous night using five-gallon cans, with no evidence of refueling on the day of the accident. Examination found one gallon of fuel remaining.

Accident Overview

A single-engine aircraft experienced a loss of engine power while returning to Seneca, South Carolina, following two en route stops. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing in a field. No injuries were reported.

Sequence of Events

According to witness statements, the pilot had fueled the aircraft the night before the accident flight using five-gallon cans. There was no evidence indicating that the aircraft was refueled on the day of the accident at any of the en route stops. The flight involved two intermediate stops before the return leg to Seneca, during which the engine lost power.

Post-Accident Examination

A subsequent examination of the airplane revealed that approximately one gallon of fuel remained in the fuel system. The specific aircraft type, registration, and other details were not disclosed in the source material.

Probable Cause

No probable cause was stated in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Jul 1993 Cessna 172 accident near Seneca, SC?

While returning to Seneca, South Carolina, after two en route stops, the engine lost power and the pilot performed a forced landing in a field. Witnesses reported the pilot had refueled the previous night using five-gallon cans, with no evidence of refueling on the day of the accident. Examination found one gallon of…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Jul 1993 involved a Cessna 172, registration N5812A, operated by Steele, William B., at Seneca, SC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT PLANNING WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12765. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.