Casualties unknown

Engine failure due to fuel contamination leads to fatal crash (N123JH)

Long Beach, CA, US

On April 24, 1992, a Beech S35 (registration N123JH) operated by Broersma, Garrett & Marlene was involved in an aviation accident near Long Beach, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failure during takeoff caused by corrosion contaminants in the fuel pump, fuel flow divider, and injector nozzles. 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 light aircraft stalled and spun into the ground after its engine failed during takeoff. Investigation revealed corrosion in the fuel system components.

What happened

The aircraft experienced a complete loss of power while climbing out immediately after takeoff. The engine failure caused the airplane to lose airspeed, resulting in an aerodynamic stall. Following the stall, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled spin and impacted the ground with significant force.

The investigation

A thorough examination of the propulsion system was conducted to determine the root cause of the power loss. Inspectors found evidence of corrosion within critical fuel delivery components. Specifically, contaminants were identified in the fuel pump, the fuel flow divider, and the fuel injector nozzles. These obstructions prevented proper fuel distribution to the engine cylinders.

Findings

The investigation confirmed that there was no evidence of preexisting mechanical failures or malfunctions in other parts of the propulsion system that would have contributed to the accident. The primary issue was isolated to the corrosion found within the fuel system, which directly led to the engine failure. This mechanical interruption during the critical initial climb phase resulted in the loss of control and the subsequent collision with terrain.

Probable cause

The engine failure during takeoff caused by corrosion contaminants in the fuel pump, fuel flow divider, and injector nozzles.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14444. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.