On October 15, 1990, a Beech 77 (registration N38021) operated by Central Flying Service Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Arkadelphia, AR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply for the flight, as evidenced by a total loss of engine power due to an insect's mud nest obstructing the left fuel tank vent. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A total loss of engine power occurred during final approach due to an insect's mud nest blocking the left fuel tank vent, forcing a field landing.
What happened
The aircraft was being flown to an airport with available fuel when a total loss of power occurred on final approach. The pilot landed the airplane in a field with high vegetation and low trees. During the landing roll, the airplane was damaged.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that an insect's mud nest was obstructing the left fuel tank vent.
Findings
The obstruction prevented proper fuel flow, leading to fuel exhaustion. The pilot was forced to make an emergency landing in a field with high vegetation and low trees. The aircraft sustained damage during the landing roll.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply for the flight, as evidenced by a total loss of engine power due to an insect's mud nest obstructing the left fuel tank vent.
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