What happened
During the second pass of an agricultural spraying operation, the Piper PA-28 registered N7143F experienced a complete loss of engine power. The pilot was forced to execute an emergency landing in a nearby rice field that contained approximately six to seven inches of standing water. Upon impact with the wet surface, the aircraft nosed over.
The investigation
Following the accident, the pilot reported discovering water contamination within the carburetor. It was noted that the aircraft had been fueled from the operator's fuel storage tank prior to this flight, suggesting a potential source of contamination in the fuel supply or storage system.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was water in the carburetor, which led to the engine failure. The pilot sustained not injured status during the incident. The presence of water in the fuel system indicates a failure in fuel management or storage hygiene, resulting in the forced landing and subsequent damage to the aircraft.