On June 9, 1991, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N2876Z) operated by Dietrich J. Ginzel was involved in an aviation accident near East Haddam, CT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The electric fuel pump was found in the OFF position, contrary to the Pilot's Operating Handbook requirement that it be ON during takeoff. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff, the engine of aircraft N2867Z began to sputter. Witnesses heard intermittent rough running. The aircraft disappeared behind trees and was found in about 10 feet of water in a pond off the end of the runway. The door was damaged, hampering escape. After recovery, the engine ran normally after drying. The electric fuel pump was found in the OFF position, contrary to the Pilot's Operating Handbook requirement.
Incident Overview
On takeoff, aircraft N2867Z experienced engine sputtering. Witnesses reported hearing the engine running intermittently and roughly. The aircraft then disappeared behind trees and came to rest in a pond approximately 10 feet deep off the end of the runway.
Accident Details
The airplane's door was damaged upon impact with the water, which prevented the occupants from escaping. The aircraft was later recovered. Following drying out, the engine was started and ran normally.
Fuel System Findings
Examination of the fuel system revealed that the electric fuel pump was in the OFF position. The Pilot's Operating Handbook specifies that the electric fuel pump must be ON during takeoff.
Probable cause
The electric fuel pump was found in the OFF position, contrary to the Pilot's Operating Handbook requirement that it be ON during takeoff.
What happened in the 9 Jun 1991 Piper PA-28-181 accident near East Haddam, CT?
During takeoff, the engine of aircraft N2867Z began to sputter. Witnesses heard intermittent rough running. The aircraft disappeared behind trees and was found in about 10 feet of water in a pond off the end of the runway. The door was damaged, hampering escape. After recovery, the engine ran normally after drying.…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Jun 1991 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N2876Z, operated by Dietrich J. Ginzel, at East Haddam, CT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The electric fuel pump was found in the OFF position, contrary to the Pilot's Operating Handbook requirement that it be ON during takeoff.
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