On November 19, 1988, a Ryan NAVION B (registration N5422K) operated by Vogan, W.c. was involved in an aviation accident near Vero Beach, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain engine power due to water and contamination in the fuel system, which resulted in a forced landing where the aircraft struck livestock. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced engine power loss during flight, resulting in a forced landing in a field where it struck three cows. Post-accident inspection revealed water and other contamination in the fuel system.
What happened
During the flight, the pilot reported that the engine lost power and was unable to be restarted. Consequently, the pilot initiated a forced landing in a nearby field. As the aircraft approached the landing site, it struck three cows that were positioned in a ravine directly in front of the aircraft's path.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed significant issues within the fuel system. Inspectors found water and other forms of contamination present in the fuel lines and tanks, which likely contributed to the engine failure.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain engine power due to water and contamination in the fuel system, which resulted in a forced landing where the aircraft struck livestock.