Casualties unknown

Forced Landing and Nose Gear Collapse After Engine Power Loss (N1422E)

Page, AZ, US

On May 23, 1994, a Cessna 172N (registration N1422E) was involved in an aviation accident near Page, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASON. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN AT THE PILOT'S DISPOSAL. 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

An airplane experienced total engine power loss during descent, leading to a forced landing on a sloped sandy hill. The nose gear collapsed during the landing roll, causing the airplane to nose over and come to rest inverted. Subsequent inspection found no mechanical issues.

Descent and Power Loss

The pilot initiated a power reduction for the initial descent from 8,500 feet mean sea level. After descending approximately 1,000 feet, a total loss of engine power occurred.

Forced Landing Preparation

The pilot made an unsuccessful attempt to restart the engine and then briefed the passengers for a forced landing. The surrounding terrain was characterized as rocky and rugged. The pilot selected a sandy hill slope with an incline of 20 to 30 degrees for the forced landing.

Landing and Roll Sequence

During touchdown and the subsequent landing roll, the airplane bounced several times. The nose gear then collapsed, causing the airplane to nose over. It came to rest in an inverted position.

Post-Accident Inspection

A detailed engine inspection and test run were conducted. No mechanical problem that could have prevented normal engine operation was disclosed.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 May 1994 Cessna 172N accident near Page, AZ?

An airplane experienced total engine power loss during descent, leading to a forced landing on a sloped sandy hill. The nose gear collapsed during the landing roll, causing the airplane to nose over and come to rest inverted. Subsequent inspection found no mechanical issues.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 May 1994 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N1422E, at Page, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASON. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN AT THE PILOT'S DISPOSAL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01297. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.