On June 4, 1997, a Cessna 177B (registration N34680) was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Powell, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a loss of engine power while flying westbound along the San Juan River gorge. Unable to find a suitable landing site, the pilot ditched the aircraft, which nosed over and sank. The aircraft was not recovered.
Departure and Flight
The flight departed at 0909 with 40 gallons of fuel. After approximately 2.2 hours of flight time, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power while flying westbound along the San Juan River gorge.
Engine Power Loss
The pilot described the power loss as a reduction of RPM accompanied by 'popping and backfiring and shuddering worse and worse all the way down.' Attempts to troubleshoot and correct the situation were unsuccessful.
Forced Landing and Ditching
The pilot was unable to locate a suitable landing site for a forced landing and executed a ditching. During the ditching, the aircraft nosed over and then sank in deep water. The aircraft was not recovered.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 4 Jun 1997 Cessna 177B accident near Lake Powell, UT?
A pilot experienced a loss of engine power while flying westbound along the San Juan River gorge. Unable to find a suitable landing site, the pilot ditched the aircraft, which nosed over and sank. The aircraft was not recovered.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Jun 1997 involved a Cessna 177B, registration N34680, at Lake Powell, UT.
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