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Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing and Impact with Ravine (N5033H)

Edinburg, VA, US

On September 18, 2002, a Cessna 172M (registration N5033H) was involved in an aviation accident near Edinburg, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. 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 2026-07-05Data APIEditorial standards

During a biennial flight review, an airplane experienced engine shaking and power loss. The CFI attempted a forced landing but the aircraft stalled and impacted a ravine bank. Post-accident engine test run showed no anomalies.

Flight Purpose

The flight was intended to complete a biennial flight review (BFR) for the owner of the airplane.

Sequence of Events

While en route to the destination airport, the airplane began to shake several times, after which the engine lost power. At an altitude of 1,200 feet, the certified flight instructor (CFI) prepared for a forced landing to a field. Just prior to touchdown, the airplane entered a "full stall situation" and impacted the bank of a ravine.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the airplane revealed fuel in the gascolator, carburetor bowl, and fuel lines to the engine. The engine was test run on the airframe; it started and ran continuously for several minutes without hesitation through a range of power settings from 700 to 2,150 RPM.

Probable Cause

No probable cause was stated in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Sept 2002 Cessna 172M accident near Edinburg, VA?

During a biennial flight review, an airplane experienced engine shaking and power loss. The CFI attempted a forced landing but the aircraft stalled and impacted a ravine bank. Post-accident engine test run showed no anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Sept 2002 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N5033H, at Edinburg, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021003X05265. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.