On October 24, 1987, a Cessna 172 (registration N4207F) was involved in an aviation accident near Titusville, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power due to debris blocking the carburetor fuel chamber well, which prevented proper fuel delivery. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft lost power at 300 feet during a go-around and crashed into trees and a house. Investigation found debris blocking the carburetor fuel chamber.
What happened
During a go-around maneuver, the engine experienced a loss of power at approximately 300 feet above the ground. The pilot attempted to return to the airport but was unable to maintain altitude. The aircraft descended and collided with trees before bouncing off the roof of a house. It finally came to rest against a vehicle in the driveway.
The investigation
A mechanical inspection of the aircraft revealed that the fuel chamber well of the discharge tube within the carburetor was blocked by debris. This obstruction prevented proper fuel flow, leading to the engine failure.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to this accident was fuel exhaustion caused by a blocked carburetor. The presence of debris in the fuel system disrupted the engine's operation during a critical phase of flight.
Probable cause
Loss of engine power due to debris blocking the carburetor fuel chamber well, which prevented proper fuel delivery.
What happened in the 24 Oct 1987 Cessna 172 accident near Titusville, FL?
An aircraft lost power at 300 feet during a go-around and crashed into trees and a house. Investigation found debris blocking the carburetor fuel chamber.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Oct 1987 involved a Cessna 172, registration N4207F, at Titusville, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of engine power due to debris blocking the carburetor fuel chamber well, which prevented proper fuel delivery.
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