On April 29, 2005, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N4514Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power due to the pilot's inadequate preflight planning/preparation in detecting contaminated fuel. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced engine power loss while towing a banner, released it, and performed a forced landing into a vacant school yard. The aircraft's landing gear contacted a fence during the landing, and post-accident inspection revealed water, solid contaminants, and an insect in the fuel system.
Incident Overview
A pilot with 2,580 hours of total flight experience reported a loss of engine power while towing a banner during cruise flight. The pilot released the banner and initiated a forced landing to a vacant school yard. During the landing, the main landing gear of the tailwheel-equipped airplane collided with a chain link fence surrounding the school's tennis court. The airplane touched down within the school yard and came to a stop in an upright position after a ground roll of approximately 200 feet.
Examination Findings
An examination of the aircraft's fuel system revealed the presence of water and solid contaminants in the gascolator and carburetor bowl. Additionally, an obvious winged insect was found trapped in the transparent inline fuel filter.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft was engaged in banner towing operations. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or operator were provided in the source. The accident occurred during daylight hours, though the specific time was not stated. No injuries or fatalities were reported.