Overview
A single-engine aircraft experienced a partial loss of engine power during a climb to cruising altitude, leading to a ditching in the Columbia River. The aircraft departed from Astoria Airport at 1637 local time on a private flight to Seattle-Boeing Field. The flight carried one pilot and one passenger, an 84-year-old female.
Sequence of Events
While climbing to en route cruise, the engine lost almost all power. The pilot decided to ditch the airplane into the Columbia River near Astoria. Approximately eight minutes after the power loss, the aircraft crash landed, nosing down into the water and coming to rest partially submerged. Both occupants were quickly rescued and uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Investigation Findings
Investigation determined the partial loss of engine power was due to the failure of the engine's fuel control unit. Contributing to the accident were the incorrect machining of an internal component of the fuel control unit and the failure of the assembling technician to correctly inspect the unit's assembly.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was a partial loss of engine power during climb to cruise due to the failure of the engine's fuel control unit. Contributing to the accident was the incorrect machining of an internal component of the fuel control unit, and the failure of the assembling technician to correctly inspect the unit's assembly.