On February 18, 1999, a Beech K35 (registration N15FF) was involved in an aviation accident near Gulfport, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power due to fuel starvation caused by an obstruction in the fuel vent system while maneuvering in IMC conditions, and the subsequent ditching into the Gulf of Mexico. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported losing engine power while approaching Gulfport, Mississippi, in IMC conditions and ditched the aircraft in the Gulf of Mexico. Recovery revealed a clogged left wing fuel vent system and significant remaining fuel.
Incident Overview
According to the pilot, he was indicating half full on his left main fuel tank while being vectored by FAA Gulfport (Mississippi) Approach Control radar for an instrument landing in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). He then experienced a loss of engine power. Believing he had at least 12 to 15 gallons of fuel remaining, he attempted to restore power but was unsuccessful and ditched the airplane in the Gulf of Mexico.
Recovery and Examination
The airplane was recovered from water 6 to 8 feet deep six days later. Investigators found approximately 12.5 to 13 gallons of uncontaminated blue-colored 100LL aviation fuel remaining in the left main fuel tank. Subsequent examination of the fuel system by FAA inspectors revealed a clogged left wing fuel vent system.
Fuel System Findings
No other anomalies were reported in the fuel system. The presence of clean fuel and the clogged vent suggest a potential issue with fuel flow, though the investigation did not explicitly state the cause of the power loss.
What happened in the 18 Feb 1999 Beech K35 accident near Gulfport, MS?
A pilot reported losing engine power while approaching Gulfport, Mississippi, in IMC conditions and ditched the aircraft in the Gulf of Mexico. Recovery revealed a clogged left wing fuel vent system and significant remaining fuel.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Feb 1999 involved a Beech K35, registration N15FF, at Gulfport, MS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A loss of engine power due to fuel starvation caused by an obstruction in the fuel vent system while maneuvering in IMC conditions, and the subsequent ditching into the Gulf of Mexico.
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