Ferry Flight Accident Involving Incorrect Propeller and Blocked Fuel Vents (N6600)

Maintenance and Departure Conditions Before the ferry flight, both previously damaged propellers were removed and replaced. An incorrect propeller was installed on the left position by a person holding a revoked mechanic's certificate. The aircraft departed with full fuel tanks, all gears braced down, and no radios installed. The permanent maintenance records did not include an entry confirming that the airplane had been inspected and found safe for the intended ferry flight. The pilot's airman certificate had been suspended for 180 days in February 1996 for operating an airplane with incorrect propellers installed. ## Flight and Accident Sequence After takeoff, while flying with another airplane, the pilot used hand signals to indicate a need to land. The pilot landed in a field without deploying flaps. After rolling approximately 300 feet, the airplane became airborne and collided with several trees. ## Post-Accident Examination Post-accident examination revealed that the right propeller was feathered. Examination of the fuel vent system showed that all recovered fuel vents were blocked, and an insect resembling a wasp was found in a section of the left fuel vent line. The No. 1 top spark plug of the left engine was missing. Examination of the flight controls, engines, and propellers revealed no evidence of pre-impact failure or mechanical malfunction.