No fatalities

Engine Failure Leads to Ocean Ditching East of West Palm Beach (N50860)

Atlantic Ocean, AO, US

On August 26, 1995, a Cessna 172 (registration N50860) was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE OIL LUBRICATION SYSTEM FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR A FORCED LANDING. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine power loss approximately 35 miles east of West Palm Beach, Florida, forcing the pilot to execute a controlled ditching in the ocean. The pilot successfully exited the water and was rescued shortly after.

What happened

The pilot reported that the aircraft's engine began to lose power while flying over the ocean, located approximately 35 miles east of the intended destination of West Palm Beach, Florida. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot initiated a glide and prepared for a water landing. Just before impact with the water, the pilot observed oil on the windshield and cowling, indicating an internal engine issue. Following the ditching, the pilot exited the aircraft, inflated his life vest, and was rescued shortly thereafter.

The investigation

The provided source material does not contain specific details regarding a post-accident mechanical examination or inspection of the aircraft components.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Aug 1995 Cessna 172 accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO?

An aircraft experienced an engine power loss approximately 35 miles east of West Palm Beach, Florida, forcing the pilot to execute a controlled ditching in the ocean. The pilot successfully exited the water and was rescued shortly after.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Aug 1995 Cessna 172 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Aug 1995 involved a Cessna 172, registration N50860, at Atlantic Ocean, AO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE FAILURE OF THE OIL LUBRICATION SYSTEM FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR A FORCED LANDING.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04335. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.