Cessna 182L Ditches in River After Loss of Power

Accident Narrative

A Cessna 182L was on approach to its destination airport when the pilot applied carburetor heat while entering the base leg of the traffic pattern. Shortly thereafter, the engine lost power at an altitude of approximately 1,200 feet above sea level, with the aircraft about 2 miles from the airport. The pilot attempted to restore engine power but was unsuccessful. Determining that a glide to the runway was not possible, the pilot executed a ditching in a river.

Examination Findings

Post-accident examination of the airframe revealed that the wing sustained substantial damage. The engine was examined and found to contain nesting material and the remains of a rodent in the inlet of the carburetor.