On August 10, 1994, a Cessna 210A (registration N6601X) operated by Stone, Larry Q. was involved in an aviation accident near Varnville, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Water contamination in the fuel system. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During the initial takeoff after a touch-and-go landing, the engine quit. Investigation found water contamination in the fuel system, with wrinkled fuel bladders trapping water. The aircraft had compliance records for AD 84-10-01-R1.
Event Description
During the initial takeoff following a touch-and-go landing, the engine quit. Subsequent examination of the fuel system revealed water contamination. The engine exhibited signs consistent with water ingestion.
Findings
Both fuel bladders had wrinkles in the bottom, up to half an inch high, which trapped water. Airworthiness Directive (AD) 84-10-01-R1, addressing water contamination of fuel systems, was applicable to the airplane. The aircraft's records documented several annual inspections that approved the airplane for return to service after the inspections. The most recent inspection was dated March 10, 1994. Additionally, there were entries indicating that AD 84-10-01-R1 had been complied with through inspection. Fuel quick drains had been installed at the initial compliance of the AD in May 1985.