Casualties unknown

2002-11-11: Mooney M20J (N1072N) — Fullerton, CA

Fullerton, CA, US

On November 11, 2002, a Mooney M20J (registration N1072N) was involved in an aviation accident near Fullerton, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection resulting in a loss of engine power due to water contamination of the fuel system. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A forced gear-up landing occurred after engine power loss on takeoff. Investigation revealed water contamination in the right fuel tank and fuel distributor valve.

Introduction

On an unspecified date, a pilot conducted a forced landing after losing engine power during takeoff. The landing was performed with the landing gear retracted, and the right wing contacted the ground before the aircraft settled onto its belly.

Accident Details

The pilot reported performing a preflight inspection, which included checking the fuel system, and noted no discrepancies. The aircraft departed with the fuel selector positioned on the right fuel tank.

Investigation Findings

A postaccident inspection of the fuel system revealed that the right fuel tank contained approximately 32 ounces of water contamination. Water was also found in the fuel distributor valve. The presence of water in the fuel system is documented in the inspection report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021122X05511. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.