No fatalities

Simulated Engine Failure Leads to Forced Landing After Power Loss (N6486S)

Senoia, GA, US

On July 28, 2002, a Cessna 150H (registration N6486S) operated by Peachtree Flight Center was involved in an aviation accident near Senoia, GA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The certificated flight instructor's failure to follow published procedures for the application of carburetor heat, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to carburetor ice formation, and subsequent collision with trees during the forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a training flight, a simulated engine failure resulted in an actual power loss. The aircraft collided with trees during the forced landing. Post-accident examination found no engine defects.

Incident Overview

A student pilot and a flight instructor were conducting a training flight that included a simulated engine failure. The throttle was set to idle to replicate the emergency scenario. When the throttle was advanced to recover from the descent, the engine did not respond. Attempts to restore engine power were unsuccessful, leading to a forced landing during which the aircraft collided with trees.

Pilot Reports

There was a discrepancy in the pilots' statements regarding the use of carburetor heat. The flight instructor reported that carburetor heat was used, while the student pilot stated it was not used.

Wreckage Examination

Examination of the wreckage revealed that the tail section had separated from the aircraft. Both wingtips displayed crush damage. Fuel was recovered from the scene. A detailed examination of the engine found no defects that would have prevented normal operation.

Environmental Conditions

A review of induction icing probability curves indicated that the temperature and dew point reported at the time of the accident fell within the "serious icing, glide power" range.

Procedural Reference

The Owner's Manual for the Cessna 150 outlines the descent procedures as follows: 1. Mixture - rich, 2. Carburetor Heat - apply full heat before closing throttle.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jul 2002 Cessna 150H accident near Senoia, GA?

During a training flight, a simulated engine failure resulted in an actual power loss. The aircraft collided with trees during the forced landing. Post-accident examination found no engine defects.

Were there any fatalities in the 28 Jul 2002 Cessna 150H accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jul 2002 involved a Cessna 150H, registration N6486S, operated by Peachtree Flight Center, at Senoia, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The certificated flight instructor's failure to follow published procedures for the application of carburetor heat, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to carburetor ice formation, and subsequent collision with trees during the forced landing. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020730X01257. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.