On November 26, 1995, a Cessna 172E (registration N3608S) was involved in an aviation accident near Lajas, PR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Water contamination in the fuel system, specifically found in the fuel strainer and carburetor bowl, despite no water being detected in samples taken from the fueling location prior to the flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot conducting a local instructional solo flight experienced an engine malfunction requiring a forced landing in a ranch field. Investigation revealed water contamination in the fuel strainer and carburetor bowl, despite clean samples from the prior fueling location.
What happened
The pilot was operating a light aircraft on a local instructional solo flight when the engine began to malfunction. The situation necessitated an immediate forced landing, which was executed safely in a nearby ranch field.
The investigation
Following the incident, a thorough examination of the fuel system was conducted. Technicians discovered water contamination within both the fuel strainer and the carburetor bowl. To determine the source of the contamination, samples were taken from the fuel tanks at the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) where the aircraft had been fueled prior to the accident. These samples showed no signs of water.
Findings
The presence of water in the strainer and carburetor indicates that contamination entered the system after the aircraft was fueled. The clean samples from the FBO suggest the fuel itself was not contaminated at the point of sale, pointing to potential issues with storage or transfer within the aircraft's tanks.
Probable cause
Water contamination in the fuel system, specifically found in the fuel strainer and carburetor bowl, despite no water being detected in samples taken from the fueling location prior to the flight.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 Nov 1995 Cessna 172E accident near Lajas, PR?
A pilot conducting a local instructional solo flight experienced an engine malfunction requiring a forced landing in a ranch field. Investigation revealed water contamination in the fuel strainer and carburetor bowl, despite clean samples from the prior fueling location.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 Nov 1995 Cessna 172E accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Nov 1995 involved a Cessna 172E, registration N3608S, at Lajas, PR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Water contamination in the fuel system, specifically found in the fuel strainer and carburetor bowl, despite no water being detected in samples taken from the fueling location prior to the flight.
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