On October 9, 2004, a Cessna 172M (registration N80657) was involved in an aviation accident near Eliot, ME. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate in-flight planning decision, which resulted a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced alternating engine power loss during approach, leading to a forced landing in a corn field. Post-accident examination revealed no visible fuel in the tanks and minimal fuel in the carburetor line.
Incident Overview
During the final approach for landing, the airplane's engine began to alternately lose and regain power. The pilot executed a forced landing into a corn field, resulting in damage to the nose landing gear and both wings.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane after the accident disclosed no visible fuel in either of the fuel tanks. When the fuel line from the carburetor was disconnected, only a few drops of fuel were observed. Additionally, there was no evidence of a fuel spill in the vicinity of the accident site.
Fuel System Details
The airplane's fuel system had a total usable capacity of 38 gallons. The aircraft had been operated for 4.4 hours since the last refueling.
What happened in the 9 Oct 2004 Cessna 172M accident near Eliot, ME?
An airplane experienced alternating engine power loss during approach, leading to a forced landing in a corn field. Post-accident examination revealed no visible fuel in the tanks and minimal fuel in the carburetor line.
Were there any fatalities in the 9 Oct 2004 Cessna 172M accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Oct 2004 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N80657, at Eliot, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate in-flight planning decision, which resulted a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
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