Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to the failure of the carburetor float assembly.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while operating in the airport traffic pattern, the engine lost total power and he performed a forced landing, during which the airplane impacted fence poles and sustained substantial damage. Examination revealed that when the fuel valve was turned on, fuel ran continuously through the carburetor and out the bottom of the engine.
Examination of the carburetor float assembly revealed a detached pontoon, which likely resulted in the loss of engine power due to excess fuel/flooding. The detached pontoon was an older brass style that was subject to service bulletins for replacement due to a history of mechanical failures.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA027 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 30, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- La Porte, Texas
- Nearest airport
- La Porte Muni (T41)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bellanca 7ECA
- N-number
- N86612
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1973
- 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.