FTW00LA071

The airplane experienced a total loss of engine power while in cruise flight after diverting for weather. The pilot stated that the airplane was at 3,500 feet, when the engine experienced a gradual loss of power. The pilot applied carburetor heat and noted that the engine RPM started to increase. The airplane began to descend, and the 'engine stopped.' The pilot elected to land in a field with a tailwind and 10 degrees of flaps extended. He reported that the tailwind was 'very strong' and his ground roll was 'long.' The airplane impacted trees and a fence at the end of the field. An aircraft mechanic conducted an engine test run at the accident site with all the engine components attached to the airplane. The mechanic stated that the engine started and operated throughout its power range without any anomalies noted.

On January 21, 2000, at 1600 central standard time, a Cessna 152 airplane, N6179Q, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a loss of engine power near Slidell, Texas. The airplane was owned and operated by Delta Qualiflight, Inc., of Fort Worth, Texas. The instrument rated private pilot and his pilot-rated passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a flight plan was not filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The cross-country flight originated from the Fort Worth Meacham International Airport at an unknown time and was destined for Ardmore, Oklahoma.

In the enclosed Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2), the pilot stated that he was near the Bowie VOR diverting back to Fort Worth due to weather. The airplane was at 3,500 feet, when the engine experienced a gradual loss of power. The pilot applied carburetor heat and noted that the engine RPM started to increase. As the airplane began to descend, the "engine stopped." The pilot performed the "emergency procedures" and secured the engine. The pilot elected to land in a field with a tailwind and 10 degrees of flaps extended. He reported that the tailwind was "very strong" and his ground roll was "long." The airplane impacted trees and a fence at the end of the field, structurally damaging the left wing.

At 1553, the weather observation facility in Denton, Texas (located 37 miles southeast of the accident site), reported the wind from 140 degrees at 15 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, scattered clouds at 4,000 feet agl, temperature 56 degrees Fahrenheit, dewpoint 31 degrees Fahrenheit, and altimeter setting 29.99 inches of mercury.

On January 22, 2000, an aircraft mechanic conducted an engine test run at the accident site with all the engine components attached to the airplane. The mechanic stated that the engine started and operated throughout its power range without any anomalies noted.