Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because the airplane was ditched and not recovered.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that about 40 minutes into the over water flight between islands, he requested a descent to 3,400 feet, which was approved by air traffic control. The pilot reduced the engine power to 2,000 rpm; however, the engine rpm dropped to 1,500. Actions by the pilot to restore engine power were unsuccessful. Following a successful water landing, the occupants exited the airplane and were rescued by the United States Coast Guard about 30 minutes later. The airplane subsequently sank and was not recovered.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR15CA091 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 26, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Makaha, Hawaii
- Nearest airport
- Kalaeloa (John Rodgers Field) (JRF)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172N
- N-number
- N422BP
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1977
- 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.