Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Landing Preparation Following Fuel Selector and Boost Pump Switch Malfunction (N9120M)

Juneau, AK, US

On August 5, 1994, a Cessna 206 (registration N9120M) operated by Levitt, Richard H. was involved in an aviation accident near Juneau, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE TOTAL LOSS OF POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE PRESCRIBED PROCEDURE FOR THE USE OF THE AUXILIARY FUEL BOOST PUMP SWITCH, OPERATING THE AIRPLANE WITH A IMPROPERLY OPERATING SWITCH, AND THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN IN THE… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During landing preparation, the pilot selected the fullest fuel tank, then the engine lost power. The auxiliary fuel boost pump switches were placed in high positions and remained on. Inspection revealed a broken spring in the rocker switch causing continuous max pressure, which can flood manifolds.

Incident Overview

The pilot was preparing for landing when he positioned the fuel selector to the fullest fuel tank. Shortly thereafter, the engine stopped producing power.

Pilot Actions

In response to the power loss, the pilot moved the auxiliary fuel boost pump switches to the On, 'HI', and 'MAX HI' positions. Both switches subsequently remained in the On position.

Switch Examination

Post-incident examination of the rocker switch revealed that the spring-loaded side was not spring loaded. As a result, the switch would continuously provide 'MAX HI' pressure instead of returning to the off position.

Operator's Manual Guidance

According to the operator's manual, leaving the auxiliary fuel boost pump switches in the 'MAX HI' position with the master switch on and the engine not operating will flood the manifolds.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Aug 1994 Cessna 206 accident near Juneau, AK?

During landing preparation, the pilot selected the fullest fuel tank, then the engine lost power. The auxiliary fuel boost pump switches were placed in high positions and remained on. Inspection revealed a broken spring in the rocker switch causing continuous max pressure, which can flood manifolds.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Aug 1994 involved a Cessna 206, registration N9120M, operated by Levitt, Richard H., at Juneau, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE TOTAL LOSS OF POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE PRESCRIBED PROCEDURE FOR THE USE OF THE AUXILIARY FUEL BOOST PUMP SWITCH, OPERATING THE AIRPLANE WITH A IMPROPERLY OPERATING SWITCH, AND THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN IN THE FORCED LANDING AREA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01904. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.