On September 30, 1985, a Bellanca CITABRIA 7ECA (registration N1008E) operated by Jeffery S. Forman was involved in an aviation accident near Council Bluffs, IA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine power loss and engine quitting after takeoff from Council Bluffs Airport. The aircraft descended through trees and impacted hilly terrain. Investigation found water-contaminated fuel from a leaking fuel truck cap.
Incident Description
During climbout from Council Bluffs Airport, the pilot reported a loss of engine power and the engine subsequently quitting. The pilot attempted an air restart but was too low to the ground to continue. During the descent, the aircraft weaved in and out of trees before finally impacting the up-slope of hilly terrain.
Investigation Findings
Inspection of the aircraft revealed water-contaminated fuel in an approximate 50/50 ratio. Examination of the fuel facility showed that a dispensing fuel truck had been used prior to fueling the aircraft. Inspection of the truck revealed that the fueling cap on the top of the tank was leaking, allowing ingestion of water into the fuel supply.