On November 20, 1989, a Cessna 172 (registration N13055) operated by Airscan Aerial Surveillance was involved in an aviation accident near Port Allen, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL SYSTEM CONTAMINATION DUE TO INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE/SERVICE OF THE AIRPLANE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a pipeline patrol flight, an airplane experienced engine roughness twice, prompting off-airport landings to drain fuel sumps. After the subsequent takeoff, the engine failed, leading to a forced landing in a rough sugar-cane field. Investigation revealed the aircraft had been in storage for three years and the fuel system was contaminated.
Flight Events
The airplane was conducting a pipeline patrol flight when the engine ran rough on two separate occasions. Each time, the commercial pilot performed an off-airport landing to drain the sumps in the fuel system. Shortly after the next takeoff, the engine quit entirely, and the pilot executed a forced landing in a rough sugar-cane field.
Post-Accident Investigation
A post-accident investigation determined that the airplane had previously been out of service for three years. Maintenance personnel who returned the airplane to service stated that they had followed the maintenance manual to remove the aircraft from storage and return it to operational status. Examination of the fuel system revealed that all components were covered with a rust-colored, varnish-like substance. No other details regarding the extent of the contamination or its specific effects were provided.
What happened in the 20 Nov 1989 Cessna 172 accident near Port Allen, LA?
During a pipeline patrol flight, an airplane experienced engine roughness twice, prompting off-airport landings to drain fuel sumps. After the subsequent takeoff, the engine failed, leading to a forced landing in a rough sugar-cane field. Investigation revealed the aircraft had been in storage for three years and the…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Nov 1989 involved a Cessna 172, registration N13055, operated by Airscan Aerial Surveillance, at Port Allen, LA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
FUEL SYSTEM CONTAMINATION DUE TO INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE/SERVICE OF THE AIRPLANE.
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