Forced landing following engine sputter during go-around

Casualties unknown • Mobile, AL, US

An aircraft collided with trees and terrain during an attempted forced landing after the engine began to sputter following a go-around.

What happened

Following the completion of an ILS approach, the pilot initiated a go-around. Shortly after this maneuver, the engine began to sputter. In response to the engine issue, the pilot reversed course and attempted to perform a forced landing. During this attempt, the aircraft collided with trees and terrain.

The investigation

Investigators examined the crash site and found that the left fuel tank had been ruptured. Despite this rupture, there was no odor of fuel or evidence indicating any fuel leakage. The right fuel tank remained intact and was found to be empty. Additionally, no fuel was present within the fuel filter or the fuel distributor valve. To further evaluate the engine, it was placed in an engine test cell. During testing, the engine started, developed power, and functioned for 20 minutes before being shut down.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-10-07 Socata TB-20 accident near Mobile, AL?

An aircraft collided with trees and terrain during an attempted forced landing after the engine began to sputter following a go-around.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-10-07 involved a Socata TB-20, registration N59TB, at Mobile, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper management of fuel, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and loss of engine power during a go-around, and subsequent collision with trees and terrain during a forced landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06944. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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