What happened
The pilot was conducting pre-flight preparations for an annual inspection, which included warming the engine for a compression check and an oil change. Rather than continuing with the ground-based procedures, the pilot elected to operate the aircraft in flight. During the takeoff phase, the pilot achieved a high rate of climb. Shortly after reaching an altitude of 150 feet above mean sea level (MSL), the engine ceased operation.
In response to the sudden loss of power, the pilot attempted a 180-degree turn to return to the airport. However, the aircraft was unable to clear the trees located short of the runway. The aircraft sustained significant damage upon impact with the terrain.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the fuel system played a critical role in the incident. The pilot reported that the aggressive climb attitude forced the fuel toward the rear of the fuel tank, effectively moving it away from the fuel outlet pipe. This positioning prevented fuel from reaching the engine, leading to starvation.
Findings
The investigation determined that the aircraft contained only 15 to 20 minutes worth of fuel at the time of the incident. The primary factor contributing to the accident was the pilot's decision to perform a high rate of climb immediately after takeoff. This maneuver unported the fuel outlets, starving the engine of fuel. The pilot confirmed that his climb rate forced the fuel away from the outlet pipe.
Safety message
Pilots must ensure that pre-flight inspections and maintenance checks are completed on the ground when possible. Sudden changes in aircraft attitude during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff, can disrupt fuel flow in certain aircraft designs, leading to engine failure.