Casualties unknown

1997-11-24: Cessna 172N (N738LC) — Flight Training Center — Watkins, CO

Watkins, CO, US

On November 24, 1997, a Cessna 172N (registration N738LC) operated by Flight Training Center was involved in an aviation accident near Watkins, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undertermined reason(s). This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 10 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot performed a forced landing on an access road after the engine lost power while maneuvering for spacing in the landing pattern. The aircraft struck an approach light, resulting in damage to the right wing, left wing strut, left horizontal stabilizer, and fuselage.

Flight and Landing Pattern

The pilot completed an uneventful local flight of approximately one hour before returning to the airport for landing. While in the landing pattern, the pilot observed another airplane in close proximity and elected to maneuver for spacing.

Engine Failure and Forced Landing

During the spacing maneuver, the engine lost power. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful, leading the pilot to make a forced landing on an access road near the runway.

Impact and Ground Events

During the landing roll, the right wing struck an approach light T-bar. After the airplane came to rest on the ground, the pilot attempted to start the engine again but was unsuccessful. Approximately 15 minutes later, the pilot began walking for help but returned to the airplane and tried starting the engine once more. The engine backfired and then started, after which the pilot taxied the airplane to the parking area.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident examination revealed damage to the right wing, left wing strut, left horizontal stabilizer, and fuselage. The engine was later started by the operator, and full power was attained.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09186. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.