Forced landing following dual engine roughness

Casualties unknown • Agua Caliente, CA, US

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing on a road after both engines of an aircraft experienced power issues during a cross-country flight.

What happened

During a cross-country flight, the right engine of the aircraft began running roughly. In response, the pilot feathered the propeller and diverted toward an airport to land. While en route, the left engine also began to run roughly.

Because the pilot was unable to reach the intended airport, a forced landing was executed on a road. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck an abandoned car and collided with the terrain. The occupants were not injured.

The investigation

An inspection of the engines revealed that the fuel lines for both engines were partially blocked by an unknown substance.

The pilot reported that in the months preceding the accident, the left engine had experienced power loss on at least four to five occasions. Following each of those previous occurrences, a mechanic had inspected the engine. The issues identified during those prior inspections ranged from a clogged oil separator to low fuel pressure, which had been addressed by replacing various hoses.

Probable cause

The fuel lines to both engines were partially obstructed by an unidentified substance.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-06-29 Cessna 414A accident near Agua Caliente, CA?

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing on a road after both engines of an aircraft experienced power issues during a cross-country flight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-06-29 involved a Cessna 414A, registration N27332, at Agua Caliente, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The fuel lines to both engines were partially obstructed by an unidentified substance.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26008. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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