Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Takeoff Climb Leads to Emergency Landing and Nose-Over (N4992V)

Lebanon, NH, US

On May 14, 1997, a Cessna 180J (registration N4992V) was involved in an aviation accident near Lebanon, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff climb at about 400 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted a highway landing but diverted to an embankment due to traffic; the airplane nosed over after touchdown. Post-accident engine test run revealed no mechanical malfunction.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, during the takeoff climb at approximately 400 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot then headed for a highway to perform an emergency landing. As the airplane approached the highway, the pilot realized there was a significant amount of traffic and decided to land on the embankment off the right side of the highway.

Landing and Nose-Over

The airplane touched down on the embankment and continued for about 100 feet before nosing over onto the highway. The sequence of events resulted in the aircraft coming to rest in an inverted position.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination of the airplane was conducted, which included a test run of the engine. The examination did not disclose evidence of mechanical malfunction. No other anomalies were reported during the inspection.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 May 1997 Cessna 180J accident near Lebanon, NH?

During takeoff climb at about 400 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted a highway landing but diverted to an embankment due to traffic; the airplane nosed over after touchdown. Post-accident engine test run revealed no mechanical malfunction.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 May 1997 involved a Cessna 180J, registration N4992V, at Lebanon, NH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07938. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.