On January 10, 2001, a Beech V35B (registration N4002A) was involved in an aviation accident near Mesa, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper fuel management in cruise flight that resulted in a loss of engine power, because of fuel starvation, and a collision with a fence during the subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced engine surging approximately 5 miles from the airfield. After switching fuel tanks and activating the boost pump, power could not be restored. The aircraft performed a gear-up forced landing on a canal bank and struck a fence. Subsequent inspection revealed the left fuel tank contained about 1 quart of fuel while the right tank was half full.
Event Description
A pilot reported that while flying approximately 5 miles from the airfield, the engine began to surge while operating with the left fuel tank selected. The pilot switched the fuel selector to the right tank and turned on the boost pump; however, engine power could not be regained. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing with the landing gear retracted on a canal bank. During the landing, the aircraft struck a fence.
Post-Accident Examination
An inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration examined the aircraft at the accident scene. The left fuel tank was found to contain approximately 1 quart of fuel, and the right tank appeared to be half full. The aircraft was recovered to a storage facility. During post-accident testing, a vented fuel tank was connected to the fuel selector valve inlet for the left tank. With the left tank selected, the engine was started and operated for approximately 5 minutes without issue.
What happened in the 10 Jan 2001 Beech V35B accident near Mesa, AZ?
A pilot experienced engine surging approximately 5 miles from the airfield. After switching fuel tanks and activating the boost pump, power could not be restored. The aircraft performed a gear-up forced landing on a canal bank and struck a fence. Subsequent inspection revealed the left fuel tank contained about 1…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Jan 2001 involved a Beech V35B, registration N4002A, at Mesa, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper fuel management in cruise flight that resulted in a loss of engine power, because of fuel starvation, and a collision with a fence during the subsequent forced landing.
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