Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power due to loose bolts holding the carburetor throttle body to the fuel bowl.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff the engine began running rough and the engine lost partial power. The pilot made a forced landing back to the departure airport. During the landing, the airplane touched down hard and departed the side of the runway, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing.
Postaccident examination of the carburetor revealed fuel stains around the outside of the fuel bowl and in the throat of the fuel bowl. Five of the six bolts holding the throttle body to the fuel bowl were found only finger-tight. The partial loss of engine power was most likely the result of air being drawn into the fuel bowl due to the loose bolts.
The last annual inspection was completed on the engine in January of 2023. Investigators did not determine the last time maintenance was specifically performed on the carburetor.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA367 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 17, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- San Angelo, Texas
- Nearest airport
- San Angelo Regional Airport (SJT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172B
- N-number
- N7509X
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1960
- 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.