Probable cause
The total loss of engine power during climb after takeoff for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power while climbing through about 300 feet above ground level after takeoff. The pilot performed a forced landing to an area off the departure end of the runway where the airplane impacted the ground and struck several objects. During postaccident interviews, the pilot said that he shut off the fuel selector valves before exiting the airplane. The engine operated during a postaccident test run when the emergency fuel shutoff valve was in the on position and the fuel selector valve was set to the right fuel tank.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA522 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 23, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Middleton, Wisconsin
- Nearest airport
- Middleton Municipal - Morey Fi (C29)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172B
- N-number
- N7624X
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.