Casualties unknown

1982-04-03: Beech D55 (N792BR) — Hugh Gardner — Napa, CA

Napa, CA, US

On April 3, 1982, a Beech D55 (registration N792BR) operated by Hugh Gardner was involved in an aviation accident near Napa, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, the pilot rotated at 90 knots and at 30 feet AGL the engine lost power. After a brief restart, power ceased and an emergency landing was made in wet grass. Examination revealed a fuel leak from a loose lever with missing bushing and cotter pin.

Accident Description

According to the pilot, during takeoff he rotated the aircraft at approximately 90 knots. When the aircraft reached about 30 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The engine briefly restarted but then stopped. The pilot executed an emergency landing approximately 2,000 feet from the approach end of runway 18R, in wet grass.

Engine Examination

A subsequent run-up of the right engine revealed a dripping fuel leak at the right end of the fuel control shaft. The lever was loose and contained no bushing or cotter pin. Fuel pressure at 2,600 RPM was measured at 12.5 pounds, with a 1.5-inch solid stream of fuel escaping from the leak point. For comparison, the left engine showed a fuel pressure of 24 pounds at the same RPM.

Maintenance

An annual or 100-hour inspection had been completed approximately nine hours before the accident flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02208. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.