On June 26, 1992, a Cessna 172 (registration N6089A) operated by Mitchell, Darrell A. was involved in an aviation accident near Mckinnon, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: WATER IN THE AIRCRAFT FUEL SYSTEM WHICH WAS NOT PURGED AS A RESULT OF THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: TREES, A FENCE AND THE UNEVEN TERRAIN CONDITION DURING THE LANDING AND ROLLOUT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
The pilot experienced engine RPM fluctuations after departure and attempted a forced landing on a highway. During the landing, the aircraft struck trees and a fence, causing the nose landing gear strut to separate. Post-crash examination found water in the fuel system.
Accident Sequence
Soon after taking off, the engine's RPM began to drop and fluctuate. The pilot attempted to reach a nearby highway to execute a forced landing. While landing, the aircraft struck the tops of several small trees. As it continued rolling on uneven terrain, it passed through a fence, and the nose landing gear strut detached from the aircraft.
Post-Crash Findings
Examination after the crash revealed a substantial amount of water in the fuel drained from the gascolator. Additionally, water was found in the pilot's above-ground automotive fuel storage tank.
Preflight Procedures
The standard preflight checklist for a Cessna 172 includes draining fuel from the fuel strainer to check for the presence of water and sediment.
What happened in the 26 Jun 1992 Cessna 172 accident near Mckinnon, WY?
The pilot experienced engine RPM fluctuations after departure and attempted a forced landing on a highway. During the landing, the aircraft struck trees and a fence, causing the nose landing gear strut to separate. Post-crash examination found water in the fuel system.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Jun 1992 involved a Cessna 172, registration N6089A, operated by Mitchell, Darrell A., at Mckinnon, WY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
WATER IN THE AIRCRAFT FUEL SYSTEM WHICH WAS NOT PURGED AS A RESULT OF THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: TREES, A FENCE AND THE UNEVEN TERRAIN CONDITION DURING THE LANDING AND ROLLOUT.
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