On September 2, 2005, a Cessna 172S (registration N972SP) operated by American Flight Services was involved in an aviation accident near Kutztown, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Seizure of the number two cylinder exhaust valve, resulting in partial loss of engine power. 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.
During cruise, an engine lost partial power and ran rough. The pilot, concerned about complete failure, flew a high pattern and landed fast, overrunning the runway and hitting a utility pole and tree, causing substantial damage. Examination found a seized exhaust valve.
Accident Details
While the airplane was in cruise flight, the engine experienced a partial loss of power and started running roughly. The pilot decided to fly to a nearby airport as a precaution. Because he worried that the engine might completely lose power, the pilot flew a traffic pattern that was higher than normal. He then executed a landing at an excessive speed. Due to the excessive speed, the airplane overran the runway. After leaving the runway surface, the airplane struck a utility pole and then a tree. The impacts caused substantial damage to the airplane.
Engine Investigation
After the accident, a thorough examination of the engine was performed. The investigation found that the number two cylinder exhaust valve had seized. The seizure of that valve was responsible for the partial loss of engine power that occurred during the flight.
Determination of Cause
The partial loss of engine power was determined to be a result of the seizure of the number two cylinder exhaust valve.
Probable cause
Seizure of the number two cylinder exhaust valve, resulting in partial loss of engine power.
What happened in the 2 Sept 2005 Cessna 172S accident near Kutztown, PA?
During cruise, an engine lost partial power and ran rough. The pilot, concerned about complete failure, flew a high pattern and landed fast, overrunning the runway and hitting a utility pole and tree, causing substantial damage. Examination found a seized exhaust valve.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 Sept 2005 Cessna 172S accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Sept 2005 involved a Cessna 172S, registration N972SP, operated by American Flight Services, at Kutztown, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Seizure of the number two cylinder exhaust valve, resulting in partial loss of engine power.
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