Raytheon A36 N36GJ accident near Pahokee, Florida

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to depart with a known deficiency with the engine, which resulted in a loss of engine power. Contributing to the accident was the loss of engine power due to the failure of the engine-driven fuel pump.

NTSB analysis

Prior to the accident flight and shortly after departure, the airplane's engine began to "surge." The pilot was able to divert to a nearby airport, and landed uneventfully. After landing, the pilot examined the engine, and checked the fuel system for leaks or contamination. He observed no anomalies and decided to depart again, after performing a run-up inspection. After departure, when the airplane was about 9 miles from the airport, and an altitude of about 2,000 feet, the engine lost power. The pilot prepared for a forced landing, and attempted unsuccessfully to restart the engine by switching fuel tanks and turning on the fuel boost pump. The airplane touched down in a field, the landing gear "dug in," and the airplane nosed down, substantially damaging the firewall. Examination of the engine revealed the engine-driven fuel pump vane cavity displayed rust and corrosion. The cavity was rinsed with a mixture of aviation gasoline and penetrating oil, and the pump was then able to rotate. It was reassembled for a functional test, and produced both low and high-end pressures without any anomalies. The fuel pump had been documented as being overhauled and then installed about 2 months prior to the accident and had accumulated 12 hours since installation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for NYC08LA106 for the full record.