Primary finding
Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to fuel contamination.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The student had just initiated a practice emergency descent when the engine suddenly stopped producing power. The student turned the controls over to her flight instructor, who was unable to restart the engine and made a forced landing to a field. During the landing roll out the nosewheel collapsed and the airplane flipped over, which resulted in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer. Post-accident examination of the engine revealed a clear gel-like substance in the airframe fuel filter bowl, carburetor bowl and carburetor finger screen. Rust-colored corrosion was also observed in the airframe fuel filter bowl and carburetor bowl. No other pre-accident discrepancies were noted with the engine that would have contributed to the loss of engine power.