Casualties unknown

Agricultural Airplane Noses Over After Engine Power Loss Due to Blocked Fuel Vent (N731AR)

Gheens, LA, US

On July 9, 1999, a Cessna A188B (registration N731AR) was involved in an aviation accident near Gheens, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel starvation due to a blocked fuel vent tube. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An agricultural airplane lost engine power during initial climb, leading to an off-airport landing in marshy grass where it nosed over and came to rest inverted. Investigation revealed fuel starvation from a blocked fuel vent tube.

Accident Details

During the initial takeoff climb, the agricultural airplane experienced a loss of engine power following the first power reduction. The aircraft was carrying 1,000 pounds of rice seed at the time. The pilot jettisoned the payload while maneuvering to clear trees in the flight path. The airplane subsequently touched down in a marshy grass area. Upon touchdown, the main landing gear tires sank into the soft mud, causing the airplane to nose over. It came to rest in an inverted position, partially submerged in water.

Investigation

Examination of the wreckage was conducted by the operator and a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector. The investigation determined that the loss of engine power was the result of fuel starvation caused by a blocked fuel vent tube.

Probable cause

Fuel starvation due to a blocked fuel vent tube.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19267. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.