No fatalities

Airplane Experiences Power Failure During Extended Downwind, Inverts in Forced Landing (N2102Q)

San Carlos, CA, US

On December 21, 2000, a Cessna 177RG (registration N2102Q) was involved in an aviation accident near San Carlos, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons during an extended downwind leg in the landing pattern. 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 an extended downwind approach, an airplane lost engine power after throttle application. The pilot performed checklists but power was not restored. The aircraft was landed in a slough, where it struck terrain and came to rest inverted. Post-crash examination found fuel tanks 1 inch below tabs, and the engine started roughly after being righted.

Sequence of Events

While on an extended downwind leg for landing, the airplane experienced a power failure after the pilot applied throttle. In response, the pilot executed the prelanding and emergency checklists, but engine power was not restored. According to the same account, the pilot turned the fuel selector to the "off" position before initiating a forced landing. The airplane was then landed in a slough located west of the airport.

During the landing, the nose wheel became caught in rough terrain, causing the airplane to come to rest inverted. No further details about the pilot or occupants were provided.

Post-Crash Examination

Fuel had been added to the airplane prior to the flight. A post-crash examination revealed that the fuel tanks carried a supply 1 inch below the tabs. After the accident, the airplane was successfully started once it was righted, but it ran roughly. The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, number of engines, date, operator, location, or any injuries or fatalities.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Dec 2000 Cessna 177RG accident near San Carlos, CA?

During an extended downwind approach, an airplane lost engine power after throttle application. The pilot performed checklists but power was not restored. The aircraft was landed in a slough, where it struck terrain and came to rest inverted. Post-crash examination found fuel tanks 1 inch below tabs, and the engine…

Were there any fatalities in the 21 Dec 2000 Cessna 177RG accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Dec 2000 involved a Cessna 177RG, registration N2102Q, at San Carlos, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons during an extended downwind leg in the landing pattern.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010105X00036. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.