Cessna 172H N2561L accident near Wikieup, Arizona

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power during cruise flight resulting from the failure of a fuel line. Contributing to the accident was inadequate maintenance inspections that failed to detect the deteriorating fuel line.

NTSB analysis

The certified flight instructor (CFI) reported that the airplane was in cruise flight when the engine power became intermittent, followed by a total loss of engine power. The CFI established best-glide airspeed for the forced landing. During the landing roll on rough terrain, the airplane contacted a rut, which sheared off the nose landing gear. A postaccident engine run revealed that the engine would operate at idle power briefly but would not accelerate as the throttle was moved forward. While the engine was running, fuel was dripping from the main fuel supply line from the fuel strainer to the carburetor inlet. Examination of the fuel line revealed that approximately 6 inches of the 18-inch hose assembly was visibly deteriorated and cracked, resulting in the leak. A replacement hose assembly was installed, and the engine ran normally under all parameters. The data tag on the deteriorated hose assembly indicated that it had been in service for more than 20 years. No maintenance record documentation was found indicating that any hose assemblies had been replaced or repaired.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR11LA135 for the full record.