Pilot Debrief

PIPER J3C-65 near White Bear Lake, MN — 2010-04-20

Final reportCEN10CA211
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Date
2010-04-20
Location
White Bear Lake, MN, USA
Airport
6MN9
Aircraft
PIPER J3C-65
Registration
N87792
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power during takeoff due to fuel contamination as a result of the pilot's inadequate preflight inspection.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he conducted a normal preflight, run-up, and takeoff. The engine stopped during the takeoff climb, about 150–200 feet above ground level. The pilot restarted the engine 3–4 times, but the engine was producing less power each time. The engine stopped and the pilot executed a forced landing to a field with trees in it. The airplane sustained substantial damage on impact with trees and terrain. Postaccident inspection of the airplane’s fuel system revealed that the fuel line between the fuel sump (strainer) and the carburetor was full of water. The inspection of the airplane revealed no other anomalies.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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