Probable cause
Fuel starvation as a result of the improper installation of the carburetor float valve by unknown personnel.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that about 10-15 minutes after departure he heard three loud "pops" and the engine rpm dropped to about 1200. The pilot attempted to restart the engine by adjusting the fuel selector, mixture, and throttle, but was unsuccessful. The pilot initiated a forced landing to desert terrain. As the airplane touched down, the nose landing gear sunk into the ground and the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. A postaccident examination of the engine by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the carburetor float valve was improperly installed, which restricted fuel flow to the engine. According to a Continental Motors representative, the carburetor overhaul requirements were the same as specified for the engine; 10 to 12 years since placed in service or last overhauled, whichever comes first. A review of the aircraft logbooks revealed no entries pertaining to the maintenance or overhaul of the carburetor.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10LA123 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 30, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Pahrump, Nevada
- Nearest airport
- North Las Vegas Airport (VGT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172
- N-number
- N8959B
- 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.