On August 7, 1998, a Mooney M20A (registration N8385E) was involved in an aviation accident near Marathon, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadequate inspection of the fuel pump during the last engine overhaul, that subsequently resulted in a worn diaphragm, fuel venting overboard, and loss of engine power from fuel exhaustion during a critical phase of flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An engine failure on short final approach led to a forced landing in a shallow bay. Post-accident examination revealed a perforated fuel pump diaphragm. The pilot had detected fuel odor earlier but continued.
Accident Overview
During a short final approach, the engine ceased operation. The pilot determined that the runway could not be reached and executed a forced landing into a shallow bay adjacent to the flight path in order to avoid obstacles.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the engine was disassembled and inspected. Examination of the fuel pump revealed a perforated diaphragm. The perforation would have allowed fuel to be dumped overboard during flight.
Maintenance Records
Review of the maintenance logs indicated that the fuel pump was neither inspected nor repaired during the most recent engine overhaul.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated in the accident report that both he and his passenger had smelled fuel at one point during the cross-country flight. Since the odor did not persist, they continued the flight.