Probable cause
The leak in the plastic connectors in the fuel lines, which resulted in decreased engine power during the initial climb.
NTSB analysis
The pilots noted a decrease in engine performance during the initial climb, and the airplane began to descend. The airplane subsequently stalled about 10 to 15 feet above ground level and impacted terrain. An examination of the airplane showed that plastic “Y” connectors in the fuel lines were cracked and leaking. The cracked and leaking connectors in the fuel lines would have caused decreased fuel flow to the engine and are consistent with the reported loss in engine performance. Postaccident examination revealed no other preimpact malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA568 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 16, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Granbury, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Granbury Regional Airport (GDJ)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Quad City CHALLENGER
- N-number
- N979JP
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.