Cessna A188B N731JF accident near Lyons, Kansas

Probable cause

The partial loss of engine power due to fuel contamination, which resulted in impact with terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inadequate preflight inspection, during which he failed to detect the fuel contamination.

NTSB analysis

The agricultural application airplane was maneuvering at low altitude when it experienced a loss of engine power, descended, and impacted terrain. The impact resulted in substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot reported that he had not done a complete preflight examination of the airplane and that not checked the fuel tanks nor had he drained the fuel sumps. There had been rain in the area the night before. A postaccident examination of the airplane disclosed the presence of water contamination in the gascolator, but there were no other preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA260 for the full record.