Incident Overview
A pilot conducting a banner-towing operation reported that while flying southbound just offshore from a beach, the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot performed a ditching maneuver in the ocean near the shore, during which the aircraft nosed over.
Post-Recovery Examination
After recovery of the aircraft and engine from the ocean, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors conducted an examination. The inspection revealed no evidence of precrash mechanical failure or malfunction of the engine or any aircraft systems.
Fuel Analysis
Usable quantities of automotive fuel were found in both fuel tanks of the aircraft. The presence of automotive fuel, which is not typically approved for aircraft use, was noted during the examination.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, the banner-towing flight was proceeding normally until the engine failure occurred without warning. The pilot chose to ditch the aircraft in the ocean as the engine had stopped and the aircraft was near the shore.