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.
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.