On February 5, 2001, a Cessna 182L (registration N42696) was involved in an aviation accident near Canon City, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power during takeoff initial climb resulting from an excessively rich fuel/air mixture, which fouled the spark plugs. A factor was rough, unsuitable terrain for a forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During the first flight after an annual inspection, an aircraft lost approximately 300 rpm during initial climb, leading to a forced landing on rough terrain. Examination revealed fouled spark plugs and a mixture of automotive fuel and 100LL fuel with a full-rich mixture.
Accident Summary
The accident occurred during the initial climb following takeoff on the first flight after an annual inspection. The aircraft engine lost approximately 300 rpm, and flight could not be maintained. The pilot executed a forced landing on rough, unsuitable terrain.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination of the aircraft and engine provided evidence of fouled spark plugs. Additionally, the aircraft was found to contain a mixture of automotive fuel and 100LL fuel, and the mixture was set to full rich. The aircraft held a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for automotive fuel. The density altitude at the time was 6,400 feet.
What happened in the 5 Feb 2001 Cessna 182L accident near Canon City, CO?
During the first flight after an annual inspection, an aircraft lost approximately 300 rpm during initial climb, leading to a forced landing on rough terrain. Examination revealed fouled spark plugs and a mixture of automotive fuel and 100LL fuel with a full-rich mixture.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Feb 2001 involved a Cessna 182L, registration N42696, at Canon City, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The loss of engine power during takeoff initial climb resulting from an excessively rich fuel/air mixture, which fouled the spark plugs. A factor was rough, unsuitable terrain for a forced landing.
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