Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Touch-and-Go Leads to Forced Landing and Substantial Damage (N166F)

Jackson, MS, US

On February 18, 1996, a Cessna 172 (registration N166F) was involved in an aviation accident near Jackson, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power during takeoff for undetermined reason(s). A factor relating 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a touch-and-go landing practice, the engine lost power on takeoff. The pilot made a forced landing in a wet field, resulting in substantial aircraft damage. Postcrash inspection found no engine problem. Weather conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

Accident Overview

A pilot practicing touch-and-go landings experienced a loss of engine power during takeoff from a touch-and-go maneuver. The subsequent forced landing was made in a wet field located at the end of the runway. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the landing.

Postcrash Inspection

Following the accident, a postcrash inspection of the engine was conducted. No mechanical issues or malfunctions were identified. The engine appeared to be functioning normally.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, the temperature was 64 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 29 degrees Fahrenheit. According to icing probability charts, these conditions were conducive to the formation of carburetor ice at glide and cruise power settings. However, the presence of carburetor ice was not verified during the inspection.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Feb 1996 Cessna 172 accident near Jackson, MS?

During a touch-and-go landing practice, the engine lost power on takeoff. The pilot made a forced landing in a wet field, resulting in substantial aircraft damage. Postcrash inspection found no engine problem. Weather conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Feb 1996 involved a Cessna 172, registration N166F, at Jackson, MS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

loss of engine power during takeoff for undetermined reason(s). A factor relating 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/20001208X05216. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.