What happened
During the initial climb phase following takeoff, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 100 feet above ground level when the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot initiated a forced landing procedure, directing the aircraft toward a nearby river bed for an emergency touchdown. As the aircraft rolled out along the uneven terrain, it collided with a large boulder, which caused the nose to pitch down and overturn.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators examined the engine components to determine the root cause of the power loss. The pilot reported that the low fuel pressure warning light had illuminated during the mishap. Physical inspection of the engine revealed the presence of fuel within both the engine-driven fuel pump and the carburetor, indicating that fuel was reaching these critical components despite the loss of pressure.
Findings
The investigation highlighted several key factors contributing to the event:
- Total loss of engine power occurred during the critical climb phase immediately after takeoff
- The aircraft landed in a river bed, resulting in collision with terrain obstacles
- Fuel was present in the engine-driven fuel pump and carburetor, suggesting the issue may not have been a complete lack of fuel supply to these specific areas
- The low fuel pressure warning light activated prior to the power failure