On August 31, 1982, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N6914D) operated by George W. Hurless was involved in an aviation accident near Higginsville, MO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a power-off landing at a private airstrip, the pilot initiated a go-around. The engine sputtered and lost power, leading to a forced landing. Water contamination was found in the left fuel tank and gascalator.
Incident Sequence
While attempting a power-off landing at a private airstrip, the pilot decided to abandon the approach and initiated a go-around by adding power. As the throttle was advanced, the engine sputtered and subsequently lost power. The pilot then performed a forced landing in a terraced area. During the landing, the nose gear collapsed and the aircraft nosed over.
Post-Inspection Findings
A subsequent inspection of the aircraft's fuel system revealed the presence of water in the fuel. Specifically, water was found in the left fuel tank and in the fuel gascalator (a fuel filter/water separator component). No water was detected in the right fuel tank. After the contaminated fuel was removed, the engine was tested and ran normally, indicating that the water contamination was the likely reason for the power loss.
What happened in the 31 Aug 1982 Piper PA-22-150 accident near Higginsville, MO?
During a power-off landing at a private airstrip, the pilot initiated a go-around. The engine sputtered and lost power, leading to a forced landing. Water contamination was found in the left fuel tank and gascalator.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Aug 1982 involved a Piper PA-22-150, registration N6914D, operated by George W. Hurless, at Higginsville, MO.
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