On May 31, 2002, a Cessna 177RG (registration N8200G) was involved in an aviation accident near Trenton, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The separation of the engine induction alternate air door, which resulted in a loss of engine power. A factor was the non-compliance with the manufacturer's service letter. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, an airplane experienced a loss of power. The pilot attempted to land on the remaining runway, touched down at the end, and came to rest in a field. Examination found a plastic alternate air door had separated from the induction airbox.
Incident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, the airplane experienced a loss of power. The pilot attempted to land on the remaining runway. The airplane touched down at the end of the runway and came to rest in a field.
Engine Examination
Examination of the engine revealed that the plastic alternate air door had separated from the front of the induction airbox and was located in the bottom of the air intake.
Manufacturer's Service Letter
The airplane manufacturer issued a service letter in 1971 specifying that the alternate air door be moved to the rear of the induction airbox. The parts manual specified that the rear-mounted alternate air door be made out of metal.
Pilot's Report
The pilot reported that he had owned the airplane for 3 years.
What happened in the 31 May 2002 Cessna 177RG accident near Trenton, NJ?
After takeoff, an airplane experienced a loss of power. The pilot attempted to land on the remaining runway, touched down at the end, and came to rest in a field. Examination found a plastic alternate air door had separated from the induction airbox.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 May 2002 involved a Cessna 177RG, registration N8200G, at Trenton, NJ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The separation of the engine induction alternate air door, which resulted in a loss of engine power. A factor was the non-compliance with the manufacturer's service letter.
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