Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power due to inadequate maintenance, including worn spark plugs and a leaking fuel hose fitting.
NTSB analysis
During the initial climb on an instructional flight, the private pilot and instructor noticed a partial loss of engine power. The pilot performed a forced landing into a hay field and the airplane nosed over. Following the accident, the mechanic who normally performed maintenance removed and discarded all twelve spark plugs, as several were worn. A subsequent examination and test run of the engine revealed a leaking fuel hose due to a loose B-nut. The loss of engine power was consistent with an inadequate fuel supply due to a fuel line leak. Further, it is likely that the worn spark plugs would also have contributed to the loss of engine power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN17LA328 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 17, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Gonzales, Louisiana
- Nearest airport
- Louisiana Rgnl (REG)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Beech A36
- N-number
- N48TZ
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1980
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.