Event Description
An aircraft experienced an engine failure during the takeoff climb phase, resulting in a forced landing off the airport. The pilot had initiated a 180-degree left turn on the runway before takeoff. At approximately 200 feet above ground level (AGL), the engine ceased operation.
Fuel System Details
Before departure, both the left and right fuel tanks were each about half full. The pilot had selected the right tank for the takeoff. A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintenance inspector explained that when fuel is drawn from a tank located on the outside of a turn, the engine may lose power. In this instance, with less than a full tank in the right tank and a left turn being performed, centrifugal force caused the fuel to move outward, away from the tank outlet. This fuel movement interrupted the fuel supply to the engine, leading to the introduction of an air bubble in the fuel line. When that bubble reached the carburetor, the engine quit.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that no other reason for the engine stoppage could be identified. The forced landing was executed successfully off the airport premises.