Incident Summary
During a cruise flight, the aircraft's engine stopped operating, forcing the pilot to execute a landing on the tundra. The pilot-in-command later stated that the fuel pump had malfunctioned during the flight. However, subsequent examination of the fuel system and both the electric and engine-driven fuel pumps found no mechanical defects or failures. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Investigation Findings
A detailed investigation of the airplane's fuel system was conducted. Both fuel lines and fuel tanks showed evidence of water contamination, indicating the presence of water in the fuel system. Despite the pilot's report of a fuel pump failure, no such malfunction was identified in the pumps themselves. The contamination was noted as the primary irregularity in the fuel system.
Damage and Injuries
The airplane experienced substantial damage as a result of the forced landing. Despite the severity of the damage to the aircraft, the pilot and the sole passenger were not injured. No other injuries were reported.