On September 1, 1997, a Bucker Flugzeugbau JUNGMANN (registration N131G) was involved in an aviation accident near Blakesburg, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
About 10 minutes after takeoff, a pilot reported a dramatic loss of engine power. Unable to restart, he performed a forced landing, striking a power line on final approach. Post-accident examination found no mechanical anomalies and a small amount of water in the gascolator.
Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that the engine suffered a dramatic loss of power approximately 10 minutes after takeoff. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful, leading the pilot to make a forced landing in what he described as the best available field. During the final approach, the airplane collided with a power line and nosed onto the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
An on-site examination of the airframe and engine revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have prevented normal flight. Fuel was present in the engine's fuel lines and fuel injection pump. A small quantity of water—about one teaspoon—was found in the gascolator. No water was detected in the fuel lines or injector manifold.
Engine Inspection
Efforts were made to have the fuel injection pump examined by the manufacturer in the Czech Republic with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, the FAA was unable to participate because the engine is not certificated under FAA regulations. Subsequently, the Czech Civil Aviation Authority and the engine manufacturer examined the fuel injection pump. The examination determined that the pump operated within the manufacturer's specifications.