Accident Details
On July 18, 2024, at approximately 1835 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 182C, registration N8523T, was substantially damaged during an emergency landing near Zephyrhills, Florida. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Flight History
The pilot reported departing Tampa Executive Airport for a round-trip flight. After a touch-and-go landing at Cross City Airport, the aircraft was en route to Zephyrhills Municipal Airport for a fuel stop when the engine began running rough. The pilot applied carburetor heat, which briefly restored normal operation before the engine lost power again. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot configured for best glide speed, declared an emergency to air traffic control, and selected a nearby field for landing. During the descent, the airplane struck a fence and came to rest in a field with uneven terrain.
Damage and Examination
The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wing assemblies. The engine remained attached to the airframe. Post-accident inspection revealed that the fuel system was intact, with no breaches or contamination detected. When the battery was connected, the engine started and ran smoothly. Magnetos were tested and showed a normal rpm drop. Throttle continuity was verified, and the engine responded normally to throttle inputs. Spark plugs exhibited normal coloration per the Champion Spark Plug chart. No mechanical anomalies were identified that would have prevented normal engine operation.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported approximately 3 nautical miles from the accident site included a temperature of 89°F and a dew point of 77°F. When plotted on a carburetor icing probability chart, these conditions were conducive for carburetor icing at glide and cruise power settings.