On February 15, 1990, a Cessna 172 (registration N4305L) operated by Glynn E. Behrend was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: WATER (OR ICE) CONTAMINATION OF THE AIRCRAFT'S FUEL, AND AN INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT BY THE PILOT. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: SNOW COVERED TERRAIN IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA. 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.
After being parked for 3 to 4 months with empty fuel tanks, an aircraft experienced engine roughness and loss of power. An emergency landing in deep snow resulted in damage. Investigation found water in the gascolator and frozen fuel sumps, with no preimpact part failure.
Incident Summary
An aircraft that had been parked for three to four months with its fuel tanks empty was subsequently flown. During the flight, the engine began running rough and would not sustain flight. The pilot executed an emergency landing in deep snow, which resulted in damage to the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
Following the incident, an investigation was conducted. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found. However, approximately one ounce of water was discovered in the gascolator. Additionally, a mechanic reported that at some time before the flight, he attempted to drain the fuel sumps, but they would not drain—appearing as though they were frozen.
What happened in the 15 Feb 1990 Cessna 172 accident near Fairbanks, AK?
After being parked for 3 to 4 months with empty fuel tanks, an aircraft experienced engine roughness and loss of power. An emergency landing in deep snow resulted in damage. Investigation found water in the gascolator and frozen fuel sumps, with no preimpact part failure.
Were there any fatalities in the 15 Feb 1990 Cessna 172 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Feb 1990 involved a Cessna 172, registration N4305L, operated by Glynn E. Behrend, at Fairbanks, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
WATER (OR ICE) CONTAMINATION OF THE AIRCRAFT'S FUEL, AND AN INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT BY THE PILOT. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: SNOW COVERED TERRAIN IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA.
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