Engine failure following inadvertent Jet-A fueling

Casualties unknown • Alamosa, CO, US

An aircraft experienced dual engine power loss shortly after takeoff due to the accidental introduction of Jet-A fuel into the aviation gasoline tanks.

What happened

Prior to departure, the pilot instructed a lineman to service the aircraft with 50 gallons of 100LL aviation gasoline. Following the refueling process, the pilot performed a routine check by draining the fuel sumps. During this procedure, the pilot observed that the fuel was clear and blue in color, though it still possessed a characteristic gasoline odor.

Shortly after takeoff, both engines experienced a loss of power. The pilot attempted to return to the airport but was unable to maintain flight, subsequently performing an intentional wheels-up forced landing.

The investigation

Investigations involving both the fixed base operator and the lineman revealed that the aircraft had been inadvertently serviced with Jet-A fuel instead of the requested 100LL gasoline. It was noted that the fuel truck used for the servicing was not equipped with a specialized Jet-A nozzle; instead, it utilized a straight tip nozzle to complete the refueling.

Probable cause

The inadvertent introduction of Jet-A fuel into the aircraft's fuel tanks during servicing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-06-27 Cessna 404 accident near Alamosa, CO?

An aircraft experienced dual engine power loss shortly after takeoff due to the accidental introduction of Jet-A fuel into the aviation gasoline tanks.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-06-27 involved a Cessna 404, registration N36998, at Alamosa, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inadvertent introduction of Jet-A fuel into the aircraft's fuel tanks during servicing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03721. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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