On April 1, 1997, a Cessna 175 (registration N9261B) was involved in an aviation accident near Naknek, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine lost all power due to fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot returned to his departure airport due to deteriorating weather, but upon arrival at nightfall, the runway lights failed to activate via radio. While in the traffic pattern, the engine lost power from fuel exhaustion, forcing a landing in a vacant lot, resulting in substantial damage.
Incident Summary
The pilot of an airplane reported that he returned to his departure airport due to deteriorating weather conditions. He had departed in daylight but returned to the unattended field at nightfall. Upon arrival, he flew over the runway several times and attempted to turn on the runway lights by tuning his radio to the published frequency and clicking his microphone key several times. The lights did not come on.
Loss of Power and Landing
While in the traffic pattern, the airplane's engine lost all power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot stated that he was unable to glide to the runway and subsequently landed in a vacant lot. The landing resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.
Investigation Findings
A review of the notices to airmen disclosed that the runway lights had been out of service for the preceding two months.
What happened in the 1 Apr 1997 Cessna 175 accident near Naknek, AK?
A pilot returned to his departure airport due to deteriorating weather, but upon arrival at nightfall, the runway lights failed to activate via radio. While in the traffic pattern, the engine lost power from fuel exhaustion, forcing a landing in a vacant lot, resulting in substantial damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 1 Apr 1997 Cessna 175 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Apr 1997 involved a Cessna 175, registration N9261B, at Naknek, AK.
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