Accident Overview
On August 5, 2025, at about 0820 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172N, registered as N1213F, was substantially damaged in an accident near Pembroke Pines, Florida. The airplane was operated under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as an instructional flight. The flight instructor and a student pilot were on board; neither sustained injuries.
Flight Details
The flight was intended for private pilot maneuver practice. The airplane departed with 43 gallons of fuel. Approximately 20 minutes into the flight, after completing several maneuvers at 1,800 ft mean sea level, the engine developed a severe vibration. The student pilot relinquished control to the instructor. While attempting to rectify the engine issue, the instructor felt something strike the engine firewall. Subsequently, the engine lost power completely. The instructor declared an emergency with air traffic control and executed a forced landing on a dirt road. During the landing roll, the airplane veered left off the road, impacted terrain, and came to rest in a marsh area adjacent to the road.
Postaccident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the aircraft after the accident. The fuselage and both wings sustained substantial damage. The engine crankcase was also breached. The airplane was recovered and retained for further examination.