Engine Began Running Rough, Which Was Followed By A Total Loss Of Engine Power

Location: Decatur, GA Accident Number: ERA22LA045
Date & Time: November 4, 2021, 09:47 Local Registration: N172XX
Aircraft: Cessna 172 Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

On November 4, 2021, about 0947 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172A, N172XX, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Decatur, Georgia. The student pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight.

The student pilot stated that the flight departed Dekalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), Atlanta, Georgia. While flying at 1,500 ft mean sea level he noted that the engine began running rough, which was followed by a total loss of engine power. The student pilot pitched the airplane for best glide airspeed and declared an emergency with air traffic control. He subsequently attempted a forced landing to a four-lane road; however, the airplane stuck powerlines, and came to rest inverted on the road. The accident site was located about 5 nautical miles south-southwest of PDK.

Initial examination of the airplane revealed the bottom of the fuselage exterior was coated in oil from the engine compartment to the tailcone and a hole was observed in the crankcase above the No. 6 cylinder.

The engine was removed from the airframe for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov