Pilot Actions Prior to Flight
According to the pilot, before departure, each fuel tank contained 20 gallons of fuel, and a preflight inspection was performed, including checking for fuel contaminants; none were found. The pilot also conducted an engine run-up, during which each magneto drop was no more than 50 revolutions per minute (RPM) with a differential drop of no more than 25 RPM.
The Flight and Engine Failure
The flight departed from Runway 9 and climbed to 1,000 feet. During the climb, the engine experienced a loss of power and began to backfire. In response, the pilot repositioned the fuel selector and turned on the auxiliary fuel pump. However, the pilot did not check the magnetos nor apply carburetor heat.
Ditching and Aftermath
The airplane was unable to maintain altitude, and the pilot ditched the aircraft in the Atlantic Ocean. The airplane was not recovered, and as a result, no determination could be made regarding the reason for the reported loss of engine power.