Casualties unknown

Fuel Line Disconnection Leads to Engine Failure and Nose Gear Collapse (N3900P)

Plymouth, MI, US

On March 29, 1986, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N3900P) was involved in an aviation accident near Plymouth, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure the aircraft was properly fueled prior to flight, which resulted in fuel starvation and subsequent engine failure. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced engine failure during climb-out due to a disconnected fuel line, resulting in a nose gear collapse and nosing over in a field.

What happened

The engine quit during the climb-out phase shortly after takeoff. The pilot switched tanks and tried a restart with no success. The aircraft then experienced a nose gear collapse and nosed over during a landing roll in a field.

The investigation

Investigation revealed that the fuel line to the carburetor had become disconnected, resulting in fuel starvation.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure the aircraft was properly fueled prior to flight, which resulted in fuel starvation and subsequent engine failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Mar 1986 Piper PA-22-150 accident near Plymouth, MI?

An aircraft experienced engine failure during climb-out due to a disconnected fuel line, resulting in a nose gear collapse and nosing over in a field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Mar 1986 involved a Piper PA-22-150, registration N3900P, at Plymouth, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to ensure the aircraft was properly fueled prior to flight, which resulted in fuel starvation and subsequent engine failure.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33026. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.