On May 29, 1988, a Cessna 305A (registration N5202G) was involved in an aviation accident near Colts Neck, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF POWER DUE OT VAPOR LOCK OF THE AIRCRAFT ENGINE AND AN OFF AIRPORT LANDING AND COLLISION WITH AN OBJECT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine RPM drop shortly after picking up a towing banner. Despite switching tanks and dropping the banner, altitude could not be maintained. The aircraft landed in a landfill and struck a 10-foot chain link fence during the landing roll out.
Incident Overview
The pilot of a banner towing aircraft reported that shortly after picking up the banner to be towed, the engine RPM began to drop. In response, the pilot switched fuel tanks and dropped the banner, but altitude still could not be maintained.
Landing and Collision
A landing was set up with flaps at 45 degrees. Touchdown occurred in a landfill, and during the landing roll out, the aircraft collided with a 10-foot high chain link fence.
Fuel and Weather Conditions
The aircraft had a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for auto fuel, and auto fuel was used. The temperature was 92 degrees Fahrenheit. The operator reported that he had experienced vapor lock with some of his other aircraft on that same day.