Casualties unknown

Night Forced Landing and Post-Impact Fire Destroy Aircraft; Water Found in Fuel System (N400WS)

Rock Hill, SC, US

On July 18, 1984, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N400WS) operated by Saber Aviation,inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Rock Hill, SC. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft was destroyed by a fire following a night forced landing in a private yard after the engine surged and lost power during descent. Investigation revealed water in the fuel lines and distributor unit.

Accident Description

The aircraft was destroyed in a post-flight fire after executing a forced landing at night in a private yard. The engine had surged and lost power during the descent through 4,500 feet prior to landing.

Pre-Accident Maintenance

Upon arrival at Montgomery, the aircraft had been written up for sluggishness and lack of response to throttle. Montgomery Aviation performed maintenance checks and made a comment about suspecting fuel injectors. They stated they advised the pilot of the situation, but no written statement was provided to support this.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the aircraft wreckage showed water in the fuel lines and distributor unit.

Pilot's Fuel Check Procedure

The pilot said his practice was to drain the sumps after refueling and not during pre-flight, when he only checks the fuel level.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Jul 1984 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Rock Hill, SC?

An aircraft was destroyed by a fire following a night forced landing in a private yard after the engine surged and lost power during descent. Investigation revealed water in the fuel lines and distributor unit.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Jul 1984 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N400WS, operated by Saber Aviation,inc., at Rock Hill, SC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40180. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.