Pilot Debrief

BELLANCA 17-30A near Canton, TX — 2011-06-08

Final reportCEN11LA381
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Date
2011-06-08
Location
Canton, TX, USA
Airport
1TA7
Aircraft
BELLANCA 17-30A
Registration
N93650
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The loss of fuel pressure for undetermined reasons, which resulted in a loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, he performed a normal preflight and run-up of the airplane prior to departure. Shortly after takeoff, the engine’s fuel pressure went to zero. The pilot switched to the right fuel tank and turned on the boost pump but still did not get any fuel pressure. He then turned the airplane back toward the airport and prepared for an engine-out forced landing. During the forced landing in a field, the airplane’s right wing struck the terrain. Fuel was present at the accident site. After the airplane was recovered, the engine-driven fuel pump was removed and examined; no abnormalities were noted, and the pump’s drive coupling was found intact. The rod end bearing connecting the throttle control to the engine’s fuel control was found disconnected. The attaching bolt was damaged, and the nut was not located. Examination of the bolt revealed signatures that were consistent with the bolt and nut being in place at the time of the accident. A reason for the loss of fuel pressure was not found.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel system integrity before departure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 6 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents6

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