On December 23, 1992, a Cessna 180K (registration N61798) operated by Woodruff, Harold S. ET AL was involved in an aviation accident near Fullerton, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE AIRPLANE'S OWNERS (INCLUDING THE PILOT) POOR MAINTENANCE AND THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT INSPECTION. CONTRIBUTING TO THIS ACCIDENT WAS THE DETERIORATED OVERWING FUEL CAPS SEALS AND THE TAILWIND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Before departure, the pilot drained multiple fuel tester tubes of water. Shortly after lift-off, the engine experienced intermittent power loss. The pilot returned and landed downwind beyond midfield, overrunning the runway and hitting the perimeter fence. Wreckage examination revealed considerable water in fuel and deteriorated cap seals.
Preliminary Actions
Before departing on the accident flight, the pilot drained multiple fuel tester tubes that contained water from the aircraft's fuel system.
Engine Power Loss
Shortly after lift-off, the engine experienced an intermittent loss of power. The pilot responded by returning to the departure airport.
Return and Landing
The pilot executed a downwind landing that touched down beyond midfield. The airplane overran the runway environment and collided with the airport perimeter fence.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that considerable water remained in the fuel tanks. Additionally, the overwing fuel cap seals were found to be deteriorated.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Dec 1992 Cessna 180K accident near Fullerton, CA?
Before departure, the pilot drained multiple fuel tester tubes of water. Shortly after lift-off, the engine experienced intermittent power loss. The pilot returned and landed downwind beyond midfield, overrunning the runway and hitting the perimeter fence. Wreckage examination revealed considerable water in fuel and…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Dec 1992 involved a Cessna 180K, registration N61798, operated by Woodruff, Harold S. ET AL, at Fullerton, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE AIRPLANE'S OWNERS (INCLUDING THE PILOT) POOR MAINTENANCE AND THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT INSPECTION. CONTRIBUTING TO THIS ACCIDENT WAS THE DETERIORATED OVERWING FUEL CAPS SEALS AND THE TAILWIND.
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