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Engine Power Loss Leads to Collision with Automobile During Forced Landing (N7894X)

Palatka, FL, US

On October 13, 2000, a Cessna 172-B (registration N7894X) was involved in an aviation accident near Palatka, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The CFI's inadequate preflight planning which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the subsequent loss of engine power. 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 a touch-and-go approach, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted a forced landing on a road but collided with a car. Examination revealed less than one gallon of fuel in the tanks and no mechanical failures.

Accident Sequence

The pilot reported that while on the fourth touch-and-go approach, the engine lost power and quit approximately 3/4 of a mile short of the runway. The pilot selected a forced landing area and attempted to land on a nearby road. During the approach, the airplane collided with an automobile.

Post-Accident Examination

An on-scene examination of the airplane revealed that less than one gallon of fuel remained in both fuel tanks. The engine was examined, and no mechanical malfunctions or failures were found.

Additional Details

No further information regarding aircraft type, registration, or injuries was provided in the source.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Oct 2000 Cessna 172-B accident near Palatka, FL?

During a touch-and-go approach, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted a forced landing on a road but collided with a car. Examination revealed less than one gallon of fuel in the tanks and no mechanical failures.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Oct 2000 involved a Cessna 172-B, registration N7894X, at Palatka, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The CFI's inadequate preflight planning which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the subsequent loss of engine power.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22109. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.