Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of a piece of metal in the fuel line, which blocked fuel flow to the engine.
NTSB analysis
During the local flight, the airplane’s engine began to surge and then experienced a total loss of power. The pilot attempted a forced landing in a nearby field. However, during the forced landing, the airplane impacted a tree and subsequently came to rest inverted. The pilot reported that when he drained the fuel tank after the accident he found a piece of welding slag in the fuel line, which blocked the flow of fuel to the engine.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA127 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 30, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Marion, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Zuehl (1TE4)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Fleet FLEET 16B
- N-number
- N9753L
- 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.