What happened
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noticed the engine beginning to lose power. Declaring an emergency, the pilot was cleared to land on any available runway at the airport. The aircraft successfully reached the airport area but subsequently collided with a hangar before striking the ground.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed significant obstructions within the air induction system. Investigators found that the system appeared to be blocked by a large amount of friction tape. Additionally, another junction within the induction system was wrapped with the same type of material, indicating improper maintenance or installation practices.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was fuel induction blockage caused by foreign objects. The presence of friction tape in the air induction system prevented proper airflow, leading to engine failure. This mechanical issue resulted in the loss of power during the critical takeoff phase, necessitating an emergency landing that could not be completed safely due to the proximity of structures.
Safety message
Proper maintenance procedures are critical to ensure that no foreign objects remain in the air induction system. Regular inspections should verify that all components are free from obstructions such as tape or debris that could impair engine performance.