Pilot Elected To Perform A Forced Landing In A Field

Location: Richmond Hill, GA Accident Number: ERA21LA105
Date & Time: January 17, 2021, 12:20 Local Registration: N919DC
Aircraft: Cessna 177RG Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On January 17, 2021, about 1220 eastern standard time, a Cessna 177RG, N919DC, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Richmond Hills, Georgia. The commercial pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot, she departed from Fort Myers, Florida (FMY) about 0930, for a crosscounty flight to Saluda, Virginia (W75). The airplane was subsequently in cruise flight at an altitude of 5,500 ft above ground level when it experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot was able to restart the engine and radioed “mayday” to air traffic control; however, the engine began to lose power again. The pilot elected to perform a forced landing in a field, which resulted in substantial structural damage to the airframe.

The airplane was recovered for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov