Casualties unknown

Touch-and-go engine failure leads to runway overrun due to water contamination (N222LS)

Strasburg, CO, US

On May 12, 1984, a Cessna TU206F (registration N222LS) was involved in an aviation accident near Strasburg, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure due to water contamination in the fuel system, which led to fuel exhaustion during the takeoff phase. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during a touch-and-go maneuver, resulting in a runway overrun and nose gear collapse. Investigation revealed significant water contamination in the fuel system.

What happened

During the takeoff phase of a touch-and-go landing, the engine quit approximately 100 feet above ground level. The pilot managed to land back on the runway, but the aircraft ran off the end, collapsing the nose gear.

The investigation

Examination of the fuel system revealed evidence of water contamination throughout. Half of the liquid drained from the main fuel strainer was identified as water. Additionally, the bladder fuel cells exhibited ridges ranging from one-half to one-and-a-half inches in height.

Findings

The engine failure was attributed to fuel exhaustion caused by water contamination in the fuel system.

Probable cause

Engine failure due to water contamination in the fuel system, which led to fuel exhaustion during the takeoff phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 May 1984 Cessna TU206F accident near Strasburg, CO?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during a touch-and-go maneuver, resulting in a runway overrun and nose gear collapse. Investigation revealed significant water contamination in the fuel system.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 May 1984 involved a Cessna TU206F, registration N222LS, at Strasburg, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure due to water contamination in the fuel system, which led to fuel exhaustion during the takeoff phase.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39556. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.