On October 19, 1990, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N23665) was involved in an aviation accident near Miami, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT OF THE AIRPLANE BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During airwork, the engine quit; the pilot performed a forced landing in shallow water. The aircraft nosed over. Investigation revealed rust-colored water in the fuel line and pump, indicating water contamination. The aircraft had flown only about 4 hours in the preceding 5 months.
Accident Summary
During an airwork maneuver, the engine unexpectedly ceased operation. The pilot was unable to restart the engine and executed a forced landing in approximately 2 feet of water. Upon touchdown, the airplane nosed over, but the wings remained above the water surface.
Investigation Findings
The following day, the pilot disconnected the fuel line at the inlet of the engine-driven fuel pump and observed rust-colored water emerging from the line. Subsequent inspection revealed the presence of water inside the fuel pump itself.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported that the airplane had accumulated only about 4 hours of flight time during the five months preceding the incident.
What happened in the 19 Oct 1990 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Miami, FL?
During airwork, the engine quit; the pilot performed a forced landing in shallow water. The aircraft nosed over. Investigation revealed rust-colored water in the fuel line and pump, indicating water contamination. The aircraft had flown only about 4 hours in the preceding 5 months.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Oct 1990 Piper PA-38-112 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Oct 1990 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N23665, at Miami, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT OF THE AIRPLANE BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND.
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