Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CHI93LA335

ROCHESTER, IN, USA

Aircraft #1

N74GT

CESSNA 150J

Analysis

SHORTLY AFTER THE PILOT TURNED THE AIRPLANE BACK TOWARD THE AIRPORT, THERE WAS A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER. THE AIRPLANE NOSED OVER DURING THE ENSUING FORCED LANDING. THE PILOT REPORTED HE '...PROBABLY GOT WATER IN THE GAS LINE DURING (45 DEGREE) RIGHT TURN.' HE STATED THERE WAS NO MECHANICAL FAILURE. THE AIRPLANE WAS OPERATING ON AUTOMOTIVE FUEL.

Factual Information

On August 22, 1993, at 1545 hours eastern standard time, a Cessna 150J, N74GT, piloted by the commercial pilot/airplane owner, experienced a loss of engine power while inbound to land at the Rochester Fulton County Airport, Rochester, Indiana. The airplane sustained substantial damage during the off-airport forced landing. The pilot received minor injuries, the one passenger reported no injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local flight, no flight plan was filed. The flight operated under 14 CFR Part 91, and originated from Rochester, Indiana at 1515 hours. The pilot reported the 13 year old passenger took photographs and handled the flight controls for a few minutes during the local pleasure flight. He stated when they turned back toward the airport he "...did a 45 degree bank to the right - a short time later, engine quit - probably got water in the gas line during right turn." The pilot attempted to return to the airport, but was unable to glide the estimated five mile distance. The airplane landed on a "...large factory lawn..." and nosed over. The pilot stated there was no mechanical malfunction. The airplane was fueled with automotive gasoline.

Probable Cause and Findings

the commercial pilot's inadequate preflight planning/preparation.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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