On July 11, 1987, a Beech D18S (registration N99CP) was involved in an aviation accident near Riverside, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a ferry flight following years of inactivity, both engines lost power after switching to auxiliary fuel. The pilot executed a road landing, but the aircraft struck obstacles and a dirt bank. Subsequent examination revealed fuel contamination.
Event Details
An aircraft that had not been flown for several years was being ferried to another location. While cruising at an altitude of 7,500 feet, the pilot decided to switch to auxiliary fuel. Shortly after moving the fuel selectors to the auxiliary position, both engines lost power and could not be restarted.
The pilot performed a forced landing on a road. During the landing, the wings struck posts and mailboxes, and the aircraft subsequently hit a dirt bank.
Findings
Fuel samples were taken from the aircraft. A visual examination of the fuel revealed obvious contamination and discoloration. The aircraft had undergone an annual inspection just prior to the flight.