Aero Commander S2R N5679X accident near Alamo, Texas

Probable cause

The partial loss of engine power due to water-contaminated fuel.

NTSB analysis

The pilot departed for the aerial application flight and noticed an abnormal engine sound as the airplane reached an altitude of about 25 ft above ground level. Concerned that the engine could lose power over obstacles further along the departure leg that included a high traffic highway and a low power line, the pilot elected to make an immediate precautionary landing. During the landing roll, both wings sustained substantial damage due to impact with trees.

During postaccident examination of the engine, a small amount of water was observed in the rear carburetor bowl; therefore, it is likely that water-contaminated fuel resulted in a temporary loss of engine power and the abnormal engine sound reported by the pilot. An engine run was conducted with no anomalies noted.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA133 for the full record.