On June 11, 1982, a Cessna 206-5 (registration N40416) operated by Hand H Air Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Somerville, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine flooding due to boost pump operation during restart, compounded by lack of altitude to clear the engine. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced engine failure during cross-country flight after switching fuel tanks. The aircraft collided with a steel fence during the subsequent forced landing due to flooding and insufficient altitude.
What happened
During a cross-country flight, the pilot switched fuel tanks, which caused the engine to quit. Attempts to restart the engine by returning to the original fuel setting were unsuccessful. During the ensuing forced landing, the aircraft collided with a steel fence.
The investigation
Maintenance personnel examined the engine after the incident and determined that it had been flooded by the boost pump during the restart attempt. The lack of altitude prevented the pilot from clearing the engine.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the accident were the engine flooding caused by the boost pump and the insufficient altitude available to clear the engine.
Probable cause
Engine flooding due to boost pump operation during restart, compounded by lack of altitude to clear the engine.
What happened in the 11 Jun 1982 Cessna 206-5 accident near Somerville, TX?
A pilot experienced engine failure during cross-country flight after switching fuel tanks. The aircraft collided with a steel fence during the subsequent forced landing due to flooding and insufficient altitude.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Jun 1982 involved a Cessna 206-5, registration N40416, operated by Hand H Air Service, Inc., at Somerville, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Engine flooding due to boost pump operation during restart, compounded by lack of altitude to clear the engine.
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