On May 23, 2003, a Cessna 182E (registration N9389X) operated by Skydive Aggieland, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Bryan, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The partial loss of engine power was attributed to a missing gasket between the air filter and carburetor, which allowed gasket-like material to obstruct the carburetor intake venturi, impeding airflow and causing the engine to run too rich. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot experienced a partial loss of engine power during takeoff and performed an emergency off-airport landing, resulting in structural damage. Examination found a missing gasket and material obstructing the carburetor venturi.
Incident
During the takeoff roll, the commercial pilot reported a partial loss of engine power. Despite efforts, he was unable to restore full power and made an emergency landing off the airport. The landing resulted in structural damage to the airplane.
Examination
Following the incident, an FAA inspector and an aviation mechanic examined the engine. They discovered that the gasket between the air filter and carburetor was missing. A portion of gasket-like material was subsequently found lodged in the carburetor's intake venturi.
Findings
The FAA inspector noted that the material found in the venturi would have impeded airflow. This condition would have caused the engine to run with an excessively rich fuel-air mixture, which is consistent with the reported loss of power.
Probable cause
The partial loss of engine power was attributed to a missing gasket between the air filter and carburetor, which allowed gasket-like material to obstruct the carburetor intake venturi, impeding airflow and causing the engine to run too rich.
What happened in the 23 May 2003 Cessna 182E accident near Bryan, TX?
A commercial pilot experienced a partial loss of engine power during takeoff and performed an emergency off-airport landing, resulting in structural damage. Examination found a missing gasket and material obstructing the carburetor venturi.
Were there any fatalities in the 23 May 2003 Cessna 182E accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 May 2003 involved a Cessna 182E, registration N9389X, operated by Skydive Aggieland, Inc., at Bryan, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The partial loss of engine power was attributed to a missing gasket between the air filter and carburetor, which allowed gasket-like material to obstruct the carburetor intake venturi, impeding airflow and causing the engine to run too rich.
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