On July 19, 1989, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N8914W) operated by Fulaks, Donald D. was involved in an aviation accident near Somerset, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ADEQUATELY PERFORM AN AIRPLANE PRE-FLIGHT INSPECTION AND DRAIN WATER PRESENT IN THE AIRPLANE FUEL SUPPLY. THE AIRPLANE ENGINE SUBSEQUENTLY LOST POWER DUE TO THE WATER CONTAMINATION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft lost power during cruise and made a forced landing in a field. The hard landing caused structural damage. Inspection revealed the main fuel sump and carburetor bowl were 95% full of water.
Incident
During cruise, the airplane experienced a loss of power. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing in a field. The airplane landed hard at the edge of the field, resulting in structural damage.
Post-Accident Examination
A mechanic who examined the airplane after the mishap reported that the main fuel sump and carburetor bowl were found to be 95% full of water. An FAA inspector later examined the fuel tank filler cap gaskets and determined they were in serviceable condition.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported only that a proper preflight was performed prior to departure.
What happened in the 19 Jul 1989 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Somerset, OH?
An aircraft lost power during cruise and made a forced landing in a field. The hard landing caused structural damage. Inspection revealed the main fuel sump and carburetor bowl were 95% full of water.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Jul 1989 Piper PA-28-235 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Jul 1989 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N8914W, operated by Fulaks, Donald D., at Somerset, OH.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ADEQUATELY PERFORM AN AIRPLANE PRE-FLIGHT INSPECTION AND DRAIN WATER PRESENT IN THE AIRPLANE FUEL SUPPLY. THE AIRPLANE ENGINE SUBSEQUENTLY LOST POWER DUE TO THE WATER CONTAMINATION.
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