On May 19, 1989, a Boeing A75 (registration N1722B) operated by Donald D. Rose was involved in an aviation accident near East Bernard, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel system water contamination due to repeated refueling without adequate checks, leading to engine power loss and subsequent nose-over during emergency landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An agricultural aircraft nosed over during an emergency landing after losing engine power due to water in the fuel system, following multiple refueling events.
What happened
The pilot departed on an aerial application flight. During the mission, the engine lost power. The chemicals were jettisoned and an emergency landing was made. However, the aircraft touched down in a muddy field with a tailwind and nosed over.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft revealed there was water in the fuel system. The accident occurred after the aircraft had been refueled for the third time that day.
Findings
The pilot's decision to continue flying despite engine power loss, combined with the muddy field and tailwind conditions, contributed to the nose-over. Water contamination in the fuel system was a critical factor.
Probable cause
Fuel system water contamination due to repeated refueling without adequate checks, leading to engine power loss and subsequent nose-over during emergency landing.