N7274T

On March 16, 2025, about 1415 Alaska daylight time, a Cessna 172A airplane, N7274T, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Fairbanks, Alaska. The pilot reported minor injuries, and the pilot-rated passenger was uninjured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot reported that, during engine run-up, a drop in engine revolutions per minute (RPM) was not observed when the carburetor heat knob was pulled. The engine was shut down and the pilot verified, both visually and by touch, that the carburetor heat control mechanism was functioning. The pilot then elected to continue the flight.

During the initial climb out, the pilot pulled the carburetor heat knob and immediately experienced a large drop in engine RPM. After observing that power was not being restored, he turned back towards the airport. The engine continued to run at low power; however, the airplane was unable to maintain altitude and the pilot elected to land on a frozen river South of the airport. During the landing, the airplane nosed over which resulted in substantial damage to the wings.

The wreckage was moved to a secure location pending further examination.