Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Forces Landing After Takeoff (N7897G)

Millinocket, ME, US

On June 16, 1999, a Cessna 172L (registration N7897G) was involved in an aviation accident near Millinocket, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. 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

After takeoff, the airplane's engine quit at 400 feet. The pilot performed a forced landing to a grass field, coming to rest in a wooded area. No mechanical malfunctions were found.

Event Description

Shortly after takeoff, the airplane climbed to an altitude of 400 feet above ground level when the engine ceased operating. The pilot executed a forced landing to a grass field located off the departure end of a perpendicular runway. The airplane subsequently came to rest in a wooded area.

Post-Accident Examination

A Federal Aviation Administration Inspector examined the wreckage and found no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane. An undetermined amount of fuel was observed in both wing tanks. All fuel and oil filters were intact and free of contaminants. The spark plugs were removed; their electrodes were intact and light gray in color. The left and right magnetos were tested by rotating the engine and produced spark on all leads. The airplane's engine was then prepared for a test run and started successfully. The engine ran for approximately 7 minutes before being shut down.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 1999 Cessna 172L accident near Millinocket, ME?

After takeoff, the airplane's engine quit at 400 feet. The pilot performed a forced landing to a grass field, coming to rest in a wooded area. No mechanical malfunctions were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 1999 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N7897G, at Millinocket, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19101. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.