On June 12, 2002, a Cessna 172F (registration N7873U) was involved in an aviation accident near Salt Lake City, UT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper in-flight planning and decisions, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. A factor contributing to the accident was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After engine power loss, the pilot attempted landing on a road but turned to inspect, lost airspeed, and landed in a plowed field, resulting in a nose-over. Examination found no fuel.
Incident Details
The airplane experienced a loss of engine power approximately two miles southwest of the intended destination. The pilot turned west to avoid houses and power lines.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that the sun was in their eyes and they could only look down. They spotted a vacant road and planned to land there. To see what was on the road before landing, the pilot turned east. This turn resulted in a loss of airspeed, causing the airplane to land in a field 50 feet from the road. The pilot stated that upon getting close enough to land, they noticed the field was plowed. The airplane touched down on the main gear, but when the nose gear contacted the ground, it "plowed into the field," and the airplane nosed over.
Examination
An examination of the airplane revealed no fuel present. No other anomalies were found.
What happened in the 12 Jun 2002 Cessna 172F accident near Salt Lake City, UT?
After engine power loss, the pilot attempted landing on a road but turned to inspect, lost airspeed, and landed in a plowed field, resulting in a nose-over. Examination found no fuel.
Were there any fatalities in the 12 Jun 2002 Cessna 172F accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Jun 2002 involved a Cessna 172F, registration N7873U, at Salt Lake City, UT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's improper in-flight planning and decisions, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. A factor contributing to the accident was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.
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