Pilot Debrief

BELLANCA 14-19-2 near Hueco Tanks, TX — 2011-02-14

Final reportCEN11LA189
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Date
2011-02-14
Location
Hueco Tanks, TX, USA
Aircraft
BELLANCA 14-19-2
Registration
N7655B
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

The loss of engine power for reasons undetermined.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, while in cruise flight, he observed a low fuel pressure indication and the engine lost power. He utilized the manual fuel pump and switched fuel tanks in attempt to restore power without success. The pilot made a forced landing in a field, resulting in substantial damage. A postaccident engine test run was conducted. The engine started without hesitation and was eventually accelerated to a maximum rpm of 2,650. Below 1,200 rpm the number six cylinder would not produce power. During the engine run, both the engine driven fuel pump and manual fuel pump provided sufficient fuel pressure to run the engine. A check of the forward fuel selector disclosed that the selector appeared jammed and would not rotate; the rear fuel selector rotated freely. A reason for the loss of power could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel levels before departure to prevent fuel issues.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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