Skyhawk 172/Cutlass 172
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification; Flight Crew Diverted; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
At approximately XA:37 on [Date]; pilot was flying 18-19 nautical miles northwest of ZZZ at 4;000 feet MSL and 2;300 RPM; performing an oil and gas production patrol. Pilot noted the engine began running rough. The pilot performed appropriate procedures; ensuring tanks were selected on both; mixture was rich; throttle full; and scanning magnetos and master. The pilot was able to hold altitude with the power maxed out at 2100-2200 RPM. The pilot squawked 7700 and made a call on Guard. Pilot received a call back on Guard from a nearby helicopter who relayed to ZZZ1 Approach. Pilot turned toward nearest airport; ZZZ2 and pitched for Vx; following a pipeline right-of-way in to the airport. Pilot repeated intentions to land in ZZZ2 on Guard and CTAF. Pilot then called company CEO (Name) to alert of the problem. Approximately 10 nautical miles west of ZZZ2; left the right-of-way course and followed Interstate for approximately 20 miles until it intersected a final approach for Runway XX at ZZZ2. Over the time this incident occurred; aircraft gained 700 feet of altitude; which was carried until landing was assured. Aircraft was taxied clear of the runway to the FBO and parked.
Pilot reported engine roughness and power loss; causing a diversion and a precautionary emergency landing.