What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-09-09 involved a Piper PA-23-160, registration N4065P, at Hillsboro, OR.

Water Contamination Leads to Dual Engine Failure and Forced Landing (N4065P)

On September 9, 1999, a Piper PA-23-160 (registration N4065P) was involved in an aviation accident near Hillsboro, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power due to fuel contamination. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

During a training flight, water found in fuel tanks was believed removed after sumping. After intentional engine failure, both engines failed due to water contamination, leading to a forced landing and terrain contact.

Preflight Inspection

During the preflight inspection, water was discovered in the aircraft's main fuel tanks. The pilots sumped the tanks several times and believed the water had been removed.

Training Maneuver

While maneuvering, the flight instructor intentionally failed and secured the right engine. A subsequent restart attempt of the right engine was unsuccessful, and the pilots elected to return to the airport.

Engine Failures

While turning on an approximate three-mile final approach, the aircraft's left engine failed. Approximately one-quarter mile from the runway, the student initiated a left turn to permit a forced landing to an open field.

Accident

While in the left turn, the aircraft contacted the terrain.

Post-Accident Inspection

A post-accident inspection of the wreckage revealed water in the aircraft's main fuel tanks and the carburetor bowls of both engines.

1999-09-09: Piper PA-23-160 (N4065P) — Hillsboro, OR