Accident Sequence
Approximately 3 miles southeast of the airport, with landing gear extended and full flaps deployed, the aircraft's engine fuel pressure dropped to zero, resulting in a complete loss of engine power. The pilot did not declare an emergency but informed the tower that the aircraft had lost fuel pressure. Air traffic control cleared the pilot to land on runway 19R.
While descending on the base leg for runway 19R, the pilot determined that landing on that runway was not feasible and elected to land on a taxiway that ran perpendicular to the approach ends of runways 19L and 19R. During the landing attempt, the aircraft collided with an airport frequency sign, then veered and struck another aircraft, N2MU, which was holding for departure on runway 19R.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft's fuel pump cavity revealed contamination with rust and water. The investigation did not specify the aircraft type or registration, nor the operator or date of the occurrence. No information was provided regarding injuries or the extent of damage to the aircraft or the airport property.
Safety Recommendations
In December 1979, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued two safety recommendations concerning fuel vapor problems in Cessna 200 series aircraft. These recommendations were independent of this accident but addressed related fuel system issues.