On August 17, 1986, a Champion 7KCAB (registration N1638G) was involved in an aviation accident near Merritt Island, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the engine-driven fuel pump, which resulted in a loss of fuel pressure and subsequent engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A banner towing aircraft lost engine power due to a failed fuel pump, forcing the pilot to ditch in water short of the runway.
What happened
The pilot reported that while engaged in banner towing operations, the aircraft engine experienced a sudden loss of fuel pressure accompanied by deteriorating revolutions per minute. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot released the tow banner and attempted to return to the airport. However, the aircraft was unable to reach the runway threshold and ultimately landed in the water short of Runway 29.
The investigation
A post-crash examination of the aircraft's fuel system revealed that the engine-driven fuel pump had failed. This mechanical failure was identified as the direct cause of the loss of fuel pressure experienced by the pilot during flight.
Probable cause
The failure of the engine-driven fuel pump, which resulted in a loss of fuel pressure and subsequent engine power.