Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of a contaminated fuel strainer.
NTSB analysis
During cruise flight the student pilot observed a loss of engine power. He applied carburetor heat for about 30 seconds with no improvement in engine performance. When the engine stopped running, he performed a forced landing in a cow pasture. During the landing, the airplane struck a tree, resulting in structural damage to the left wing spar. During examination of the wreckage the fuel strainer was opened and approximately 2 tablespoons of a moist, powdery substance were found inside, and some had adhered to the internal fuel screen. The origin of the substance was not determined, however the airplane was stored outside and had not been flown for several months following the last annual inspection.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09LA476 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 22, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fairmount, Georgia
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 150J
- N-number
- N61022
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.