Cessna 172N, VH-TEF, 2km South-west of Dooley Downs WA, 23 August 1984

198404501

Summary

The pilot stated that the last refuel used super motor fuel, taken from the station bulk storage and decanted into an empty 200 litre aviation fuel drum, before being pumped into the aircraft. The refuelling of the aircraft had taken place two days before the accident. Following the refuelling, the pilot had taken a fuel sample but believed it to be free of water. No additional fuel samples had been taken prior to the accident. An inspection of the aircraft fuel system revealed a substantial quantity of water present in the carburettor bowl, fuel strainer bowl and both wing drain points. There is little doubt that this quantity of water was sufficient to cause the engine to fail.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198404501
Occurrence date 23/08/1984
Location 2km South-west of Dooley Downs
Report release date 15/05/1987
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level Minor

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Cessna Aircraft Company
Model 172
Registration VH-TEF
Operation type Private
Departure point Dooley Downs WA
Destination Mount Augustus WA
Damage Substantial