Casualties unknown

Agricultural aircraft nosed over after fuel system water contamination (N1722B)

East Bernard, TX, US

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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

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.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 May 1989 Boeing A75 accident near East Bernard, TX?

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 aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 May 1989 involved a Boeing A75, registration N1722B, operated by Donald D. Rose, at East Bernard, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Fuel system water contamination due to repeated refueling without adequate checks, leading to engine power loss and subsequent nose-over during emergency landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28306. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.