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Simulated Engine Failure Practice Leads to Runway Strike and Fire (N5127D)

Albuquerque, NM, US

On October 31, 2003, a Cessna 182A (registration N5127D) was involved in an aviation accident near Albuquerque, NM. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's delayed use of carburetor heat and his inadequate flare resulting in a loss of engine power and a hard landing. Also causal was the inadequate supervision of the flight. Carburetor icing conditions was a contributing factor. 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 simulated engine failure in the traffic pattern, a training airplane experienced a heavy sink rate and power loss, resulting in a hard landing, nose gear separation, and a post-impact fire.

Accident Overview

During a training flight, the instructor simulated an engine failure by pulling the throttle to idle and applying carburetor heat while the airplane was in the pattern for runway 22. The student pilot established an airspeed of 75 miles per hour and turned towards the runway.

Sequence of Events

Approximately 100 feet above ground level (AGL), the airplane encountered a heavy sink rate. The instructor noted that the stall warning horn did not sound and the bank angle was shallow. The student pilot rapidly added power, but the engine did not respond. The airplane subsequently struck the runway on its main landing gear, bounced, and struck the runway again. The impact separated the nose gear, causing the airplane to skid on its nose. A post-impact fire ensued, consuming the fuselage.

Environmental Conditions

The temperature at the time of the accident was 62 degrees Fahrenheit, with a dew point of 32 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the carburetor icing probability chart, these temperature and dew point conditions were on the edge of serious icing conditions at glide power settings.

Probable Cause

No probable cause was stated in the source.

Icing

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Oct 2003 Cessna 182A accident near Albuquerque, NM?

During a simulated engine failure in the traffic pattern, a training airplane experienced a heavy sink rate and power loss, resulting in a hard landing, nose gear separation, and a post-impact fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 31 Oct 2003 Cessna 182A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Oct 2003 involved a Cessna 182A, registration N5127D, at Albuquerque, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's delayed use of carburetor heat and his inadequate flare resulting in a loss of engine power and a hard landing. Also causal was the inadequate supervision of the flight. Carburetor icing conditions was a contributing factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040105X00008. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.