On May 18, 1990, a Cessna 305A (registration N201FM) was involved in an aviation accident near Woodstock, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During final approach, the engine failed. The pilot attempted restart but was unsuccessful. After clearing power lines, the aircraft struck trees about 900 feet short of the runway. Post-flight inspection found water in the gascolator bowl and unusually clean spark plugs.
Incident Description
During the final approach phase of landing, the engine ceased to produce power. The pilot attempted to restore engine operation by restarting it, but the attempt did not succeed. After the aircraft cleared a set of power lines, it struck trees approximately 900 feet before the runway. The airplane came to rest after impacting the trees.
Post-Flight Inspection
After the event, the engine underwent examination. The top spark plugs were observed to be exceptionally clean. The number 6 cylinder was taken out for detailed inspection. The combustion chamber, piston face, and exhaust port were also notably clean. Some loose carbon deposits were present on the piston head. The gascolator bowl was disassembled, and water was found inside it. A subsequent engine test run to 2,000 RPM revealed no operational anomalies.