Casualties unknown

Partial Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing and Wire Strike (N8342E)

Titusville, FL, US

On March 5, 1998, a Cessna 172N (registration N8342E) operated by Charles A.turner Iii was involved in an aviation accident near Titusville, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s), which resulted in a forced landing. Factors relating to the accident were: the lack of suitable terrain and obstructions in the emergency landing area. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a partial loss of engine power during base leg, executed a forced landing to the only available area, resulting in collision with wires and terrain. Investigation found no precrash mechanical failure.

Incident Overview

During the approach for landing, the pilot reported a partial loss of engine power while on base leg. This prompted an immediate forced landing attempt to the only available area deemed suitable. The subsequent forced landing resulted in an in-flight collision with wires and terrain.

Post-Incident Examination

A thorough examination of the airframe and flight controls was conducted following the incident. The examination revealed no evidence of any precrash mechanical failure or malfunction. All observed components appeared to have been functioning normally prior to the collision.

Determination of Power Loss Source

Despite the investigation, the specific source of the reported partial loss of engine power could not be determined. The lack of mechanical anomalies left the cause of the power loss unexplained.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Mar 1998 Cessna 172N accident near Titusville, FL?

A pilot experienced a partial loss of engine power during base leg, executed a forced landing to the only available area, resulting in collision with wires and terrain. Investigation found no precrash mechanical failure.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Mar 1998 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N8342E, operated by Charles A.turner Iii, at Titusville, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s), which resulted in a forced landing. Factors relating to the accident were: the lack of suitable terrain and obstructions in the emergency landing area.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09737. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.