Casualties unknown

Witness Reports Engine Sputtering Before Airplane Crash and Fire (N1814Y)

Saint Cloud, FL, US

On September 16, 2005, a Cessna 172C (registration N1814Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Saint Cloud, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain the airspeed while maneuvering following loss of engine power resulting in a stall/mush, an uncontrolled descent, and collision with trees and the ground. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A witness observed an airplane take off, heard its engine sputtering and ceasing multiple times, then heard two loud noises and saw it disappear behind trees. The airplane impacted trees, came to rest inverted, and was consumed by fire. No precrash anomalies were found during inspection.

Incident Overview

A witness reported observing an airplane as it took off and flew overhead. According to the witness, the engine was heard "sputtering and dying." The engine sputtered and ceased operating approximately two or three times. Subsequently, the witness saw the airplane turn and go behind some trees. Two loud noises in quick succession were then heard, leading the witness to believe the airplane had crashed. The witness telephoned 911.

Accident Details

An official from the Osceola County Sheriff's office stated that the airplane impacted trees and came to rest inverted. A fire ensued, which enveloped and consumed the airplane.

Post-Accident Inspection

Representatives from Cessna Aircraft Company and Teledyne Continental Motors inspected the wreckage under the supervision of an FAA inspector. No evidence of precrash anomalies was noted.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Sept 2005 Cessna 172C accident near Saint Cloud, FL?

A witness observed an airplane take off, heard its engine sputtering and ceasing multiple times, then heard two loud noises and saw it disappear behind trees. The airplane impacted trees, came to rest inverted, and was consumed by fire. No precrash anomalies were found during inspection.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Sept 2005 involved a Cessna 172C, registration N1814Y, at Saint Cloud, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain the airspeed while maneuvering following loss of engine power resulting in a stall/mush, an uncontrolled descent, and collision with trees and the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050923X01517. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.