On August 27, 1999, a Cessna 175 (registration N7566M) was involved in an aviation accident near Mountain City, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A blocked fuel system vent that resulted in fuel starvation and the complete loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a loss of engine power shortly after takeoff, leading to an emergency landing in a corn field. Post-accident examination discovered a wasp nest in the fuel system vent.
Incident Description
A pilot completed a normal preflight inspection of the airplane before rolling it out of the hangar. The engine run-up was normal, and the subsequent takeoff and initial climb were also without issue. Shortly after liftoff, however, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot immediately selected a corn field adjacent to the departure end of the runway for an emergency landing. The airplane touched down in the field, where it struck a fence and came to rest inverted. The pilot reported no other anomalies during the flight.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination of the airplane and engine assembly did not reveal any component failure or malfunction. A thorough inspection of the fuel system, however, identified a wasp nest obstructing the fuel system vent. The presence of the nest was noted. Beyond this finding, no other defects were discovered.