On October 22, 1995, a Mooney M20E (registration N5744Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Shady Side, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the partial loss of engine power due to a leaking fuel line. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During cruise flight at 1,400 feet MSL, the engine lost partial power. All attempts to restore power failed, resulting in a forced landing into a field where the airplane struck trees. Postaccident examination revealed an empty left fuel tank and a brittle, leaking fuel line.
Accident Summary
A pilot reported that while cruising at an altitude of 1,400 feet mean sea level (MSL), the airplane's engine experienced a partial loss of power. Despite various attempts, the pilot was unable to restore engine performance. The subsequent forced landing, aimed at an open field, concluded with the airplane colliding with trees.
Investigation Findings
Postaccident examination of the airplane did not uncover any evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction. Inspection of the fuel system revealed that the left fuel tank was empty, while the right fuel tank was half full. The engine was subjected to a test run and operated satisfactorily; however, fuel leakage was noted from the fuel line connecting the engine-driven fuel pump to the fuel injector. Further examination showed that the fuel line had become brittle.