Engine Failure Over Lake Michigan Due to Fuel Pump Restriction from Unaddressed Airworthiness Directive (N3326Q)

Accident Summary

A pilot was flying at night over Lake Michigan in instrument meteorological conditions (IFR) when he informed Milwaukee Approach that the engine had quit. The aircraft was located 20 miles northeast of Milwaukee at the time of the report. The pilot was able to glide the aircraft for approximately 12 miles before it impacted the water. The pilot and the airplane were recovered about two months after the accident.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the engine-driven fuel pump revealed that a 3/4-inch rubber washer was restricting the fuel flow through the outflow valve of the pump. This restriction likely led to a disruption in fuel delivery to the engine, resulting in a loss of engine power.

Airworthiness Directive Non-Compliance

Airworthiness Directive (AD) 93-11-11 mandated that the remanufactured fuel pump be replaced before the next flight. The AD was issued 'to prevent disruption of fuel flow to the engine, which can result in a loss of engine power.' The investigation found that the AD had not been complied with, meaning the non-compliant fuel pump remained in service and contributed to the engine failure.