Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing and Nose-Over (N738DF)

Crockett, TX, US

On October 8, 1995, a Cessna 172N (registration N738DF) operated by Ellington Field Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Crockett, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of both magnetos to operate properly due to inadequate maintenance by other maintenance personnel. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain available for the 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported an engine power loss during a flight to Tyler, Texas. Despite corrective actions, the engine failed to restart, resulting in a forced landing and nose-over. Examination revealed magneto contact and timing issues.

Incident Overview

A pilot was en route to Tyler, Texas, when the engine lost power. The pilot reported activating the carburetor heat and moving the fuel selector from both to either the left or right position while attempting to restart the engine. The engine did not restart, necessitating a forced landing.

Landing and Post-Accident Condition

Upon touchdown in a soft field, the airplane nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position. Attempts to start the engine during a subsequent test run were unsuccessful.

Examination and Findings

Examination of the magnetos revealed that the contacts in both magnetos were not opening when the rotor was turned. The contacts were adjusted and the internal timing was set in accordance with the manufacturer's maintenance manual. After the magnetos were reinstalled, the engine started and operated normally.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Oct 1995 Cessna 172N accident near Crockett, TX?

A pilot reported an engine power loss during a flight to Tyler, Texas. Despite corrective actions, the engine failed to restart, resulting in a forced landing and nose-over. Examination revealed magneto contact and timing issues.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Oct 1995 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N738DF, operated by Ellington Field Aero Club, at Crockett, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

failure of both magnetos to operate properly due to inadequate maintenance by other maintenance personnel. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain available for the forced landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04692. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.