On April 3, 1995, a Mooney M20J (registration N4478H) was involved in an aviation accident near Tijeras, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL STARVATION DUE TO FOREIGN MATERIAL PARTIALLY BLOCKING THE FUEL SCREEN, AND THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO SWITCH FUEL TANKS. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. 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.
An aircraft in instrument meteorological conditions experienced a sudden engine roughness followed by total power loss. The pilot conducted a forced landing on a mountain road, during which the left wing struck a parked car. Investigation revealed the left fuel tank finger screen was blocked by green leaves.
Incident Overview
An airplane was in cruise flight under instrument meteorological conditions when the engine abruptly began running roughly and subsequently lost all power. The pilot attempted to restore engine power but was unsuccessful. The pilot could not recall whether he had switched fuel tanks during the emergency.
Forced Landing
The pilot executed a forced landing onto a mountain road. During the landing roll, the left wing of the airplane struck a parked car.
Investigation Findings
Following the incident, the fuel selector was found positioned on the left fuel tank. Examination of the left fuel tank finger screen revealed it was obstructed by green leaves. After the fuel screen was cleaned and reinstalled, the engine operated successfully at full power.