Engine failure and nose-over during landing following improper f…

Engine failure and nose-over during landing following improper fueling

Casualties unknown • Fullerton, CA, US

An engine failure occurred during a downwind departure, leading to an emergency landing in a field where the aircraft subsequently nosed over.

What happened

Before departing, a noncertificated pilot filled the fuel tanks of the aircraft with approximately 20 gallons of automotive fuel using unfiltered gasoline cans. Following this procedure, the pilot did not perform an adequate preflight inspection.

Shortly after executing a downwind departure, as the aircraft was abeam the tower, the engine quit. The pilot chose to land in an open field located north of the airport. During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with a ditch and nosed over onto its back. All occupants were not injured.

The investigation

The investigation determined that the fuel selector was positioned to the right fuel tank. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the right fuel tank contained approximately one half cup of water.

Probable cause

The engine failure was caused by water contamination in the right fuel tank, following the use of unfiltered gasoline cans to refuel the aircraft and an inadequate preflight inspection.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-02-27 Piper PA-22-150 accident near Fullerton, CA?

An engine failure occurred during a downwind departure, leading to an emergency landing in a field where the aircraft subsequently nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-02-27 involved a Piper PA-22-150, registration N3724P, operated by Clarence Mixon, at Fullerton, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was caused by water contamination in the right fuel tank, following the use of unfiltered gasoline cans to refuel the aircraft and an inadequate preflight inspection.

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