On April 10, 1989, a Cessna 172F (registration N7847U) operated by Finnegan, James M. was involved in an aviation accident near Morgan, UT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE SERVICING OF THE AIRCRAFT BY THE PILOT, PARTIAL BLOCKAGE OF THE FUEL LINE AND FUEL FILTER, AND FUEL STARVATION. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS WERE: THE DOWNWARD SLOPING RUNWAY AND A FENCE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced engine power loss at 10,500 feet and made a forced landing on a 3,800-foot runway. It touched down near midfield, overran the departure end, hit a fence, and sustained damage. Post-accident examination revealed restricted fuel flow.
Incident Summary
During a flight at 10,500 feet MSL, the engine lost power and could not be restarted. The pilot executed a forced landing on Runway 21 at a nearby airport. The runway had a reported downward slope of 1.5 degrees and was 3,800 feet long. Wind was estimated from 270 degrees at 10 knots.
Landing and Damage
The pilot reported that the aircraft touched down at about midfield during the landing and was unable to stop on the remaining runway. After departing the runway end, the aircraft struck a fence and was damaged.
Examination Findings
A post-accident examination revealed that seven gallons of fuel remained in the aircraft. An inspection of the fuel system showed evidence of restricted fuel flow in the main fuel line and fuel filter. The pilot stated that the aircraft had experienced a similar problem previously and that he had drained a considerable amount of water from the fuel system. Automotive fuel was being used in the aircraft.
What happened in the 10 Apr 1989 Cessna 172F accident near Morgan, UT?
An aircraft experienced engine power loss at 10,500 feet and made a forced landing on a 3,800-foot runway. It touched down near midfield, overran the departure end, hit a fence, and sustained damage. Post-accident examination revealed restricted fuel flow.
Were there any fatalities in the 10 Apr 1989 Cessna 172F accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Apr 1989 involved a Cessna 172F, registration N7847U, operated by Finnegan, James M., at Morgan, UT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
INADEQUATE SERVICING OF THE AIRCRAFT BY THE PILOT, PARTIAL BLOCKAGE OF THE FUEL LINE AND FUEL FILTER, AND FUEL STARVATION. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS WERE: THE DOWNWARD SLOPING RUNWAY AND A FENCE.
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