On September 9, 2003, a Cessna 152 (registration N5172B) was involved in an aviation accident near Kissimmee, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power due to inadequate maintenance. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot reported an engine power loss at 200-300 feet msl after takeoff. A 180-degree turn back to the airport was insufficient, resulting in impact with trees at the northwest corner. Post-crash examination revealed multiple ignition and carburetor discrepancies.
Incident Overview
According to the official report, a student pilot stated that after takeoff and at an altitude of approximately 200 to 300 feet mean sea level, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a 180-degree turn back toward the airport but was unable to reach the runway. The aircraft subsequently impacted with trees on the northwest corner of the airport.
Post-Accident Examination
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector who responded to the incident conducted a post-accident examination of the engine. Several discrepancies were noted. The shielding was separated on five of the eight ignition leads. Additionally, the No. 2 cylinder ignition lead was misfiring into the shielding. The carburetor throttle shaft exhibited excessive play. The contacts on the distributor blocks of both magnetos were found to be burned and worn. Furthermore, the fuel screen was described as very dirty.