What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1986-05-30 involved a Cessna 195, registration N4745G, at Port Huron, MI.

Engine Failure During Currency Flight Results in Lake St. Clair Crash (N4745G)

On May 30, 1986, a Cessna 195 (registration N4745G) was involved in an aviation accident near Port Huron, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to properly drain the fuel tanks prior to flight, which resulted in water contamination and subsequent engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot conducting a currency flight experienced engine failure after 15 minutes due to water contamination, leading to a hard landing on Lake St. Clair and substantial damage.

What happened

The flight was intended as a currency exercise for the pilot, who noted that the aircraft had remained unused for more than eight months. Approximately ten to fifteen minutes into the flight, the engine ceased operation. The pilot executed a hard landing on Lake St. Clair, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.

The investigation

During post-accident interviews, the pilot acknowledged the likely cause of the failure. He stated that he was certain water had entered the fuel system and admitted that, given the opportunity, he would have drained the tanks completely before flying.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the accident was fuel contamination. The extended period of inactivity allowed moisture to accumulate in the fuel system, which subsequently caused the engine to stop. The pilot's admission confirms that water in the fuel was the direct cause of the power loss.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to properly drain the fuel tanks prior to flight, which resulted in water contamination and subsequent engine failure.

1986-05-30: Cessna 195 (N4745G) — Port Huron, MI