Probable cause
A partial loss of power due to the liberation or failure of the No. 2 cylinder's exhaust valve.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, at an altitude of 3,000 ft about 8 miles offshore while conducting fish spotting operations, the engine began to shake and lose rpm. To avoid ditching in the ocean waters, he navigated to the shoreline and the nearest airport. When it became evident that the airplane would not reach the airport, he ditched the airplane in the shallow waters of the ocean surf to avoid bystanders on the beach. The airplane sustained substantial damage to right elevator.
Examination of the engine revealed that the No. 2 cylinder exhaust valve spring and guide had liberated and were located inside the damaged rocker cover. The piston and interior of the No. 2 cylinder exhibited mechanical impact damage and a hole was present in the face of the piston. The exhaust valve and exhaust valve keepers were not located. The reason for the liberation or failure of the No. 2 cylinder's exhaust valve could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC19LA034 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 16, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Ocean City, Maryland
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172RG
- N-number
- N9715B
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1981
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial observation
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.