Cessna 172 N737TH

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #


	Aircraft: Cessna 172 Tail Number: N737TH Type: Single-engine, four-seat general aviation aircraft Location: Lake Ontario, near Shadigee, NY Incident Date: November 4, 1979 Flight Type: Non-commercial, operating under 14 CFR Part 91 TSB Identification: NYC80FAMS2

AIRCRAFT TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The Cessna 172 is one of the most popular and widely used light aircraft in the world. It is known for its reliability, ease of handling, and versatility, making it a preferred choice for flight training, personal transportation, and recreational flying. Since its introduction in the 1950s, the Cessna 172 has been involved in a variety of roles within general aviation.

HISTORY OF THE INCIDENT #

On November 4, 1979, N737TH, a Cessna 172, was involved in a significant accident near Shadigee, NY. The flight began from Akron, NY, and was intended to return to the same destination. However, during what was expected to be a routine pleasure flight, the aircraft encountered a sudden and unexpected engine failure or malfunction during normal cruise flight. This catastrophic loss of engine power left the pilot with very few options.

Despite the dire circumstances, the pilot of N737TH demonstrated remarkable composure and quick decision-making. Faced with the challenge of an engine-out situation, the pilot attempted an off-airport forced landing, ultimately deciding to bring the aircraft down on the waters of Lake Ontario. The landing, though executed under extreme duress, allowed two passengers to escape with only minor injuries. Tragically, one passenger did not survive the accident.

The aircraft itself sustained severe damage during the water landing and subsequently sank in the depths of Lake Ontario. The wreckage was later located, but the specific details regarding the recovery of the aircraft are not fully documented.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

N737TH suffered a total loss following the water landing on Lake Ontario. The incident resulted in the loss of one life and significant damage to the aircraft, which eventually sank in the lake. The cause of the engine failure that led to the accident was not fully determined, highlighting the unpredictable nature of mechanical failures in aviation.

LOCATED BY & DATE #

The aircraft wreckage was discovered following the accident, though the exact date and individuals responsible for the discovery are not detailed in the records available.