NTSB Accidents

Probable cause: The pilot’s improper decision to takeoff in an area of rough water and ocean swells, which resulted in a failure of the right float struts.

Probable cause: The improperly seated fuel cap, which resulted in an in-flight fuel leak and subsequent total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.

Probable cause: An engine loss of power due to fuel starvation from a broken fuel line between the fuel tank and the engine, which prevented the pilot from reaching a suitable landing area. Contributing to the accident was the inadequate maintenance of the engine and its components.

Probable cause: The pilot’s inadequate preflight fuel planning and improper decision to not refuel before the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the subsequent total loss of engine power.

Probable cause: The pilot’s decision to take off in high-density altitude and gusting quartering tailwind conditions, which resulted in a loss of lift and an inability to gain altitude during the initial climb.

Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to remove the engine cowl plugs during preflight, which resulted in excessive engine cylinder head temperatures during climb and a total loss of engine power.

Probable cause: An in-flight collision with a bird while on downwind.

Probable cause: The pilot’s inadequate preflight inspection, which resulted in undetected water in the fuel system and a total loss of engine power during the initial climb.

Probable cause: The accumulation of carburetor ice while operating at a reduced engine power setting, which resulted in a total loss of engine power on approach and a subsequent forced landing on unsuitable terrain.