Beech A36 N36900 accident near Oberlin, Kansas

Probable cause

The blockage of the left fuel tank vent, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation. Contributing to the accident of the pilot’s failure to use his checklist to address the loss of engine power.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that while in cruise flight over a cloud layer, the engine lost power as if it were out of fuel. The pilot attempted to restore engine power by switching to the right fuel tank and activating the starter but was unsuccessful. As the airplane descended through the cloud layer, the pilot switched back to the left fuel tank and then focused his attention on maintaining airplane control. The airplane descended below the cloud layer and the pilot maneuvered the airplane for a forced landing to a road. During the forced landing, the airplane impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.

Examination of the fuel system revealed that the fuel venting system on the left-wing fuel tank was obstructed by what appeared to be insect debris. No other anomalies were noted during the examination of the airframe and engine that would have precluded normal operations.

The circumstances of the power loss are consistent with an interruption of fuel flow from the left fuel tank due to inadequate venting of the fuel tank.

During the attempt to restore engine power, the pilot did not engage the auxiliary fuel pump as stated in the emergency procedures checklist, which may have aided in restoring engine power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA344 for the full record.