On October 4, 1989, a Champion 7ECA (registration N123DA) was involved in an aviation accident near Beaver Falls, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE RIGHT FUEL VENT BECAME CLOGGED ALLOWING THE LEFT FUEL TANK TO BECOME EXHAUSTED. IN ADDITION, THE PILOT FAILED TO ADEQUATELY MONITOR THE FUEL SUPPLY IN EACH TANK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a pipeline patrol at 500 feet, the engine failed. The pilot performed a forced landing in a wooded, hilly area. Investigation found the left fuel tank empty and right tank full. The aircraft lacks a fuel selector valve, and the right tank's vent check valve contained a gummy substance. Fuel filler caps are non-vented.
Incident Details
A pipeline patrol flight was being conducted at an altitude of 500 feet when the engine ceased operation. The pilot executed a forced landing in a wooded area situated on hilly terrain.
Findings
Following the landing, examination of the fuel system revealed that the left fuel tank was empty, while the right fuel tank was full. The aircraft is not equipped with a fuel selector valve. The right fuel tank's vent check valve was found to contain a gummy substance lodged in the flipper valve seat area. Additionally, the fuel tank filler caps are not vented. Fuel quantity gauges for each tank are located on the inboard side of the respective fuel tank.