On September 2, 1983, a Piper PA28R-201T (registration N47402) was involved in an aviation accident near Anton Chico, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The manufacturer's failure to produce a fuel line fitting free of defects, which led to fatigue failure and subsequent loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A manufacturing defect in a fuel line fitting caused total power loss during flight, resulting in a forced landing where the aircraft sustained significant damage after striking vegetation.
What happened
During the flight, the pilot heard a distinct popping noise followed by an immediate loss of engine power. The fuel flow indicator dropped to zero, and attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot initiated a forced landing. During the approach, the left wing struck a bush, causing the aircraft to swerve off course and resulting in the collapse of the main landing gear.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the fuel line fitting, specifically an Imperial Brass part number 120B, had failed. Analysis determined that the failure was caused by fatigue originating from a manufacturing defect in the component.
Probable cause
The manufacturer's failure to produce a fuel line fitting free of defects, which led to fatigue failure and subsequent loss of engine power.
What happened in the 2 Sept 1983 Piper PA28R-201T accident near Anton Chico, NM?
A manufacturing defect in a fuel line fitting caused total power loss during flight, resulting in a forced landing where the aircraft sustained significant damage after striking vegetation.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Sept 1983 involved a Piper PA28R-201T, registration N47402, at Anton Chico, NM.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The manufacturer's failure to produce a fuel line fitting free of defects, which led to fatigue failure and subsequent loss of engine power.
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