Casualties unknown

Loss of Engine Power Prompts Ditching in Potomac River (N7175M)

Quantico, VA, US

On March 3, 1995, a Cessna 175 (registration N7175M) was involved in an aviation accident near Quantico, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the failure of a connecting rod, which resulted in the total loss of engine power. Subsequently, the airplane was ditched. 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 cruise flight, the pilot lost engine power and saw no oil pressure indication. A forced landing was performed, and the aircraft was ditched in the Potomac River. Subsequent inspection revealed a hole in the crank case and a broken connecting rod.

Incident

During cruise flight, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power and noted the absence of oil pressure indication. In response, the pilot executed a forced landing, which resulted in the aircraft being ditched in the Potomac River.

Findings

An FAA inspector examined the engine following the incident. According to the inspector's report, a hole approximately 3 inches in diameter was found in the upper part of the crank case. Additionally, part of the number 3 connecting rod was observed lying on top of the engine. No further details were provided regarding the cause of the power loss or the extent of damage to the aircraft or occupants.

The aircraft was not recovered, and no additional information about the make, model, registration, or operator was disclosed. The investigation focused solely on the physical evidence present at the scene.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Mar 1995 Cessna 175 accident near Quantico, VA?

During cruise flight, the pilot lost engine power and saw no oil pressure indication. A forced landing was performed, and the aircraft was ditched in the Potomac River. Subsequent inspection revealed a hole in the crank case and a broken connecting rod.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Mar 1995 involved a Cessna 175, registration N7175M, at Quantico, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the failure of a connecting rod, which resulted in the total loss of engine power. Subsequently, the airplane was ditched.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03177. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.