PIPER J3C-65
White Bear Lake, MN — April 20, 2010
Event Information
| Date | April 20, 2010 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN10CA211 |
| Event ID | 20100421X84625 |
| Location | White Bear Lake, MN |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 45.11639, -92.99583 |
| Airport | Benson Airport |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | J3C-65 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
A total loss of engine power during takeoff due to fuel contamination as a result of the pilot's inadequate preflight inspection.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that he conducted a normal preflight, run-up, and takeoff. The engine stopped during the takeoff climb about 150 – 200 feet above ground level (agl). The pilot restarted the engine 3 – 4 times, but the engine was producing less power each time. With the engine stopped, the pilot executed a forced landing to a field with trees in it. The airplane sustained substantial damage on impact with trees and terrain. The inspection of the airplane’s fuel system revealed that the fuel line between the fuel sump (strainer) and the carburetor was full of water. The inspection of the airplane revealed no other anomalies.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.