Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172 near Hobe Sound, FL — 2010-11-16

Final reportERA11LA065
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Date
2010-11-16
Location
Hobe Sound, FL, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 172
Registration
N8306B
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power due to fuel contamination in the carburetor.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, about 20 minutes into the flight, the engine began to lose power. He was able to keep the engine running using the fuel primer knob; however he could not maintain the airplane's altitude. The pilot then performed a forced landing into an orange grove and the airplane nosed over in the soft terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the wings. Two inspectors from the Federal Aviation Administration examined the airplane and engine. The carburetor was disassembled and a thick, black and brown, slime-like substance was found in the carburetor bowl, blocking the fuel channel and drain plug. The origin of the contamination was not determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have returned to the departure airport after initial power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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