No fatalities

Engine Power Loss and Forced Landing Result in Runway Excursion and Tree Strike (N73158)

Langley, WA, US

On August 5, 1997, a Cessna 172M (registration N73158) operated by Sven Lincke was involved in an aviation accident near Langley, WA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A failed exhaust valve. Factors were tailwind and excessive airspeed during the ensuing forced landing. . 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 experienced an engine rpm drop and vibration in cruise, diverted to an airpark, and during landing floated due to tailwind and slope, turning onto a steep taxiway where the right wing struck trees, spinning the aircraft. A broken exhaust valve was found.

Narrative

The pilot reported that during cruise flight, the engine rpm decreased and the airplane began to shake. The pilot checked the gauges, throttle, mixture, magnetos, and fuel valve position but found no abnormalities. After notifying air traffic control of the loss of engine power, the pilot diverted to a nearby airpark.

Entering the traffic pattern, the pilot set up for a short field landing. However, due to a tailwind, sloping terrain, and excess airspeed, the airplane floated a considerable distance down the runway. Upon touchdown, the pilot realized there was insufficient runway remaining to stop and opted to turn off the runway onto a steep uphill taxiway.

During the rollout on the taxiway, the right wing struck trees, causing the airplane to spin 180 degrees.

Postcrash Inspection

A postcrash engine inspection revealed a broken exhaust valve on the number three cylinder. No other information was provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Aug 1997 Cessna 172M accident near Langley, WA?

A pilot experienced an engine rpm drop and vibration in cruise, diverted to an airpark, and during landing floated due to tailwind and slope, turning onto a steep taxiway where the right wing struck trees, spinning the aircraft. A broken exhaust valve was found.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Aug 1997 Cessna 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Aug 1997 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N73158, operated by Sven Lincke, at Langley, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A failed exhaust valve. Factors were tailwind and excessive airspeed during the ensuing forced landing. .

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08746. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.