On June 13, 1993, an Emory W. Greer, Jr. VARI-EZE (registration N222EG) operated by Emory W. Greer, Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Olathe, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to secure a fuel cap during the preflight inspection of the airplane, and the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the emergency landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An amateur-built airplane experienced an engine overspeed and failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in a collision with terrain. Investigation revealed a missing fuel cap and a shattered propeller.
Accident Overview
An amateur-built airplane crashed after its engine failed shortly after takeoff. Witnesses reported a normal takeoff and initial climb. Moments later, the engine noise increased to an extremely high RPM before stopping completely. The pilot executed a steep, descending turn, and the aircraft subsequently collided with terrain.
Postaccident Findings
A postaccident inspection disclosed a shattered propeller, which was recovered some distance from the accident site. Additionally, the fuel cap for the right wing tank was missing. The cap was later located well away from the crash site; it was heavily abraded. The cap was found unlatched and was not secured to the tank with a safety chain. The fuel tank is positioned ahead of and in line with the pusher engine and propeller assembly.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 13 Jun 1993 Emory W. Greer, Jr. VARI-EZE accident near Olathe, KS?
An amateur-built airplane experienced an engine overspeed and failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in a collision with terrain. Investigation revealed a missing fuel cap and a shattered propeller.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Jun 1993 involved an Emory W. Greer, Jr. VARI-EZE, registration N222EG, operated by Emory W. Greer, Jr., at Olathe, KS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's failure to secure a fuel cap during the preflight inspection of the airplane, and the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the emergency landing. Factors associated with the accident are the unsecured fuel cap and the foreign object (fuel cap) damage to the propeller blades.
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