What happened
The aircraft was engaged in a flight intended solely to complete a required biennial flight review. During the initial climb phase after takeoff, the engine lost power, leading to an emergency situation. The pilot attempted to land the airplane in a nearby plowed field. Upon impact with the soft dirt surface of the field, the landing gear failed and collapsed under the stress.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft and spoke with the owner. It was revealed that the aircraft had not been flown for several months prior to this incident. During this static period, the fuel levels on board were low. When the engine was inspected after the event, no mechanical discrepancies were found except for the presence of water in the fuel line and the carburetor.
Findings
The primary factors leading to the accident included the loss of engine power during a critical phase of flight. Contributing elements were the presence of water contamination in the fuel system and the extended period of inactivity which likely allowed for fuel degradation or contamination accumulation. The landing gear failure was a direct result of the hard impact with the uneven, soft ground of the plowed field.
Safety message
This incident highlights the importance of proper pre-flight inspections, particularly after extended periods of storage. Pilots should ensure that fuel systems are free from water and contaminants before flight to prevent engine malfunction.