On February 21, 1996, a Cessna 175A (registration CGROA) operated by Jeff Klaiber was involved in an aviation accident near San Angelo, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The unexplained loss of engine power during the final approach, which could not be determined by investigators. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced an unexplained loss of engine power while the pilot attempted to correct a low approach by adding throttle, resulting in a forced landing short of the runway.
What happened
The pilot was conducting the final approach for landing when he observed that the aircraft was descending below the desired glide path. To correct this situation and ensure a safe touchdown on the runway, the pilot advanced the throttle to increase engine power. Immediately following this action, the engine lost power unexpectedly. Despite attempts to restart the engine, the effort was unsuccessful, leaving the pilot without propulsion. The aircraft continued its descent and impacted the ground in a marshy area located approximately 400 feet short of the runway threshold.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the accident site and the available evidence was conducted to determine the cause of the power loss. Investigators analyzed the circumstances surrounding the engine failure during the critical phase of flight. However, despite the detailed review of the event, the specific mechanical or operational reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined from the available data.
Findings
The primary factor in this incident was the sudden and unexplained cessation of engine power during the final approach. The inability to restart the engine prevented any recovery action. The aircraft came to rest in a marshy area 400 feet short of the runway due to the loss of thrust while attempting to correct a low approach.
Probable cause
The unexplained loss of engine power during the final approach, which could not be determined by investigators.