Pilot Debrief

Rockwell S2R R1340 near Keokuk, IA — 2020-07-12

Final reportCEN20LA276
Sign in to save
Date
2020-07-12
Location
Keokuk, IA, USA
Aircraft
Rockwell S2R R1340
Registration
N3104S
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

The improper installation of a fuel vent line during maintenance, which resulted in fuel starvation and a total loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The agricultural airplane was on final approach to a planned fuel stop during the cross-country flight when the accident occurred. About 3-4 miles from the airport, the engine temperature surged then decreased. The engine stopped running and the pilot decided to land in a field, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing. Examination of the airplane revealed a kinked rubber fuel vent line in the right wing. The line was creased across a structural beam, which restricted the air flow to the fuel tank. Just before the accident flight, the airplane was at a maintenance facility for repairs. During the repairs, the wings had been removed and replaced. The right wing’s fuel vent line was not installed properly. This most likely resulted in an air blockage and drop in fuel pressure as the fuel quantity was reduced during the 2.5-hour flight, resulting in the loss of engine power.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted the approach after engine temperature surge.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

Related mishaps