Probable cause
A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The purpose of the flight was for the pilot to ferry the airplane to a location where it would undergo an annual inspection. The airplane had not been flown for several months and during the preflight inspection the pilot drained the fuel bowl observing no water. Following the engine start, the pilot performed a normal engine run-up and magneto check. During the initial climb after takeoff, the engine lost power and the pilot ditched the airplane in nearby river. After being submerged in the river for several days, the airplane was recovered and an examination was performed with no mechanical anomalies found.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10LA189 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 25, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Annapolis, Maryland
- Nearest airport
- Lee Airport (ANP)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 120
- N-number
- N72560
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Ferry
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.