On March 2, 1991, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N2960B) operated by Northeast Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Philadelphia, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine stoppage due to obstruction of the carburetor venturi by foreign object debris, specifically a sponge-like material, compounded by the missing primary venturi and bracket air filter assembly. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft suffered an engine stoppage shortly after takeoff due to a sponge-like material obstructing the carburetor venturi, resulting in a crash and fire.
What happened
The incident occurred shortly after the airplane departed. At an altitude of approximately 300 to 400 feet above ground level, the engine ceased running. The aircraft subsequently crashed onto the roof of a building and was destroyed by fire.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the engine revealed significant obstructions within the carburetor assembly. A sponge-like material was found lodged beneath and inside the secondary venturi. Additionally, the primary venturi of the carburetor was missing entirely. Investigators were unable to locate the bracket air filter assembly.
Findings
The engine failure was caused by foreign object debris obstructing fuel flow through the carburetor. The presence of a sponge-like material in the secondary venturi and the absence of the primary venturi prevented proper engine operation.
Probable cause
Engine stoppage due to obstruction of the carburetor venturi by foreign object debris, specifically a sponge-like material, compounded by the missing primary venturi and bracket air filter assembly.
What happened in the 2 Mar 1991 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Philadelphia, PA?
An aircraft suffered an engine stoppage shortly after takeoff due to a sponge-like material obstructing the carburetor venturi, resulting in a crash and fire.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Mar 1991 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N2960B, operated by Northeast Aviation, at Philadelphia, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Engine stoppage due to obstruction of the carburetor venturi by foreign object debris, specifically a sponge-like material, compounded by the missing primary venturi and bracket air filter assembly.
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