On July 25, 2002, a Piper PA-30 (registration N8563Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Marble Hill, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The solid fuel system contamination resulting in a loss of engine power. The inadequate emergency procedures, and the airspeed not maintained by the pilot were additional causes. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot reported a loss of engine power while en route, leading to an off-airport landing attempt in a grass field. The airplane was destroyed, and fuel system contamination was found.
Incident Overview
The airplane, owned and piloted by a private pilot, was destroyed during an off-airport landing attempt. The pilot reported a loss of engine power while en route.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported hearing engine noise when the airplane began to circle over a 40-acre grass field. The engine noise ceased about midpoint through the turn.
Impact and Wreckage
Ground scarring and wreckage distribution were consistent with a nose-down, low-speed impact.
Engine and Fuel System Analysis
Nonvolatile memory aboard the airplane showed that the left engine was colder than the right engine, indicating that the pilot may have attempted to start the failed engine. Solid contamination of the fuel system was noted.