Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to the pilot's improper leaning procedures, resulting in a forced landing and collision with a fence.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot stated that he conducted a preflight inspection and engine run-up and noted no anomalies. He departed and climbed to 2,000 feet when the engine started running rough and popping. The engine rpms dropped from 2,200 to 2,000 without the throttle being moved. The pilot leaned the fuel mixture until the engine reached peak temperature and then enriched the mixture to -30 degrees. The engine roughness and popping increased and the rpms began to drop. The pilot then made a forced landing to a pasture. The airplane collided with several fixed objects and sustained structural damage to the airframe. Examination of the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly and accessories revealed no anomalies. The Pilot's Operating Handbook specified that in case of engine problems the mixture control should be set to "rich".
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA442 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 14, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Boyd, Texas
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172S
- N-number
- N2446F
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.