Pilot Debrief

Cub Crafters CCK near Cookson, OK — 2013-06-03

Final reportCEN13CA315
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Date
2013-06-03
Location
Cookson, OK, USA
Airport
44M
Aircraft
Cub Crafters CCK
Registration
N319MA
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to water contamination in the fuel. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's failure to check the fuel during the preflight, and failure to check the fuel storage tank’s fuel filter/water separator.

NTSB narrative

The engine lost power during the approach for landing and the restart attempt was unsuccessful. The pilot attempted to make a forced landing on a narrow gravel road. The left wing struck the top of a tree; the airplane spun around and impacted the ground. The wings received substantial damage. Post-accident examination revealed water in the fuel, in the carburetor, and in the storage supply tank. The pilot surmised that the water was likely due to recent heavy rain showers. He admitted he failed to check the fuel when he preflighted the airplane, and overlooked checking the fuel storage tank’s fuel filter/water separator.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot failed to check fuel and fuel filter/water separator during preflight.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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