Casualties unknown

Engine Failure After Downwind Departure Leads to Nose-Over Landing in Field (N3724P)

Fullerton, CA, US

On February 27, 1991, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N3724P) operated by Clarence Mixon was involved in an aviation accident near Fullerton, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT INSPECTION. CONTRIBUTING TO THIS ACCIDENT WAS WATER IN THE FUEL TANK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A noncertificated pilot filled the airplane with automotive fuel from unfiltered cans and skipped a thorough preflight. Shortly after a downwind departure, the engine quit. The pilot landed in a field, but the airplane hit a ditch and nosed over. Investigation found water in the right fuel tank.

Departure and Fueling

Prior to departing, a noncertificated pilot filled the airplane's gas tanks with approximately 20 gallons of automotive fuel sourced from unfiltered gasoline cans. The pilot then failed to perform an adequate preflight inspection.

Engine Failure

Shortly after executing a downwind departure, when the airplane was abeam the tower, the engine ceased operation.

Landing

The pilot elected to land in an open field north of the airport. During the landing roll, the airplane collided with a ditch and nosed over onto its back.

Investigation Findings

The investigation disclosed that the right fuel tank contained about one half cup of water. The fuel selector was positioned to the right fuel tank.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16480. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.