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Engine Power Loss During Fish Spotting Flight Leads to Ditching (N24EJ)

Shaktoolik, AK, US

On May 21, 1997, a Cessna 180 (registration N24EJ) was involved in an aviation accident near Shaktoolik, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s). 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

A pilot conducting fish spotting flights experienced engine power loss while circling at 600 feet. Despite switching fuel tanks, the engine did not restart, leading to a ditching and subsequent nose-over. Post-recovery fuel measurements contrasted with pilot estimates.

Accident Details

A pilot was conducting fish spotting flights in a remote area. While circling to the left at about 600 feet above the water, the engine coughed several times and then lost power. The pilot switched fuel tanks several times, but the engine did not restart. He ditched the airplane in the water about 50 yards from the beach. After touchdown, the airplane nosed over.

Fuel Status

The pilot reported that the left fuel tank was indicating 1/3 full and the right tank was near empty. After recovery, the left tank contained 15 gallons of fuel, and the right tank contained 5 gallons of fuel. The pilot estimated he still had 1 and 1/2 hours of fuel on board and had operated the airplane with the fuel selector in the 'BOTH' position.

Engine History and Examination

The airplane's engine had accrued about 30 hours since being overhauled. An examination of the engine did not reveal any mechanical malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 May 1997 Cessna 180 accident near Shaktoolik, AK?

A pilot conducting fish spotting flights experienced engine power loss while circling at 600 feet. Despite switching fuel tanks, the engine did not restart, leading to a ditching and subsequent nose-over. Post-recovery fuel measurements contrasted with pilot estimates.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 May 1997 involved a Cessna 180, registration N24EJ, at Shaktoolik, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s).

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07843. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.