Following a normal takeoff roll, on the initial climb-out the aircraft’s engine lost power due to water ingestion in the carburettor. The aircraft was observed to depart from controlled flight and it struck an area of rising ground, fatally injuring the pilot. Investigation of the aircraft’s fuel system revealed significant water contamination that had not been removed during the pre-flight inspection.

This Special Bulletin contains preliminary information on the accident and highlights that it is possible that an entire fuel sample tube of water, drained from the fuel system, can still produce an odour of AVGAS when smelled.

AAIB Special Bulletin S1-2025 Rockwell Commander 112 TCA, N4698W

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