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Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing at Collegedale Airport (N78092)

Collegedale, TN, US

On September 9, 1999, a Cessna 182P (registration N78092) operated by Aviation Specialists was involved in an aviation accident near Collegedale, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to secure the fuel cap which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the loss of engine power. A factor was the collision with a fence post. 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

During approach to Collegedale Airport, an aircraft experienced engine sputtering and power loss. The pilot conducted a forced landing in a field, colliding with a fence post. Investigation revealed the right wing fuel cap was missing.

Approach and Power Loss

According to the pilot, while approaching Collegedale Airport, he noticed the fuel level was getting low. The left fuel gauge indicated the tank was almost empty, while the right fuel gauge still indicated a quarter tank. While preparing for a visual approach to runway 21, the engine sputtered and then lost power.

Pilot Actions

He immediately turned toward runway 21 and attained best glide airspeed. At this time, he observed that he would not be able to reach the runway. He made a forced landing in a field adjacent to the airport and collided with a large fence post.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the airplane revealed that the right wing fuel cap was missing. The right side of the airplane fuselage beyond the rear window and along the side of the tail cone had blue streaks in a similar color to 100 octane low lead aviation fuel. Examination of the filler ports and fuel caps disclosed no failures to these components. The fuel cap was found on the runway at the Collegedale Airport.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Sept 1999 Cessna 182P accident near Collegedale, TN?

During approach to Collegedale Airport, an aircraft experienced engine sputtering and power loss. The pilot conducted a forced landing in a field, colliding with a fence post. Investigation revealed the right wing fuel cap was missing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Sept 1999 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N78092, operated by Aviation Specialists, at Collegedale, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to secure the fuel cap which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the loss of engine power. A factor was the collision with a fence post.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19693. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.