Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 180 near Anchorage, AK — 2017-07-09

Final reportANC17LA034
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Date
2017-07-09
Location
Anchorage, AK, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 180
Registration
N2429C
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff from a seaplane base in the float-equipped airplane, the flap handle would not move, likely due to the headset cord wrapped around the flap handle base, so he maneuvered the airplane to the right downwind to return to land. The engine subsequently lost all power and the pilot performed a forced landing onto a residential street. The airplane sustained substantial damage after impacting a tree, a light pole, and multiple houses. A postaccident examination of the engine and fuel system revealed that the fuel tanks were almost full, and fuel was present in the fuel lines with the exception of the line from the fuel flow transducer to the fuel manifold. The manifold itself contained only residual fuel. No leaks or debris in the fuel system were observed. The fuel selector was in the “off” position at the scene of the accident, but the pilot stated that he turned it from “both” to “off” after the accident to prevent fuel leaks and fire. The engine test run revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Given the lack of fuel in the lines to the manifold and in the manifold, it is likely that the total loss of engine power was the result of fuel starvation during the flight; however, the reason for the fuel starvation could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have opted for a thorough preflight check after 9 months of inactivity.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 6 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents6

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