Cessna 182M N71494 accident near Council Bluffs, Iowa

Probable cause

The partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane’s engine did not respond to a commanded power increase while maneuvering for spacing due to aircraft traffic. He subsequently made a forced landing to a field. The airplane sustained substantial damaged to the forward fuselage when it struck a terrace in the field.

A postaccident engine run was conducted and although the test was limited due to the bent propeller, the engine exhibited no anomalies during the engine run. The possibility of carburetor icing existed based on the atmospheric conditions present at the time of the accident, but the pilot stated that he had carburetor heat applied during the event. The carburetor heat system worked normally during the engine run.

Based on the available information, the reason for the partial loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA076 for the full record.