On August 13, 2005, a Globe GC-1B (registration N2219S) operated by Austin M. Breining was involved in an aviation accident near Vero Beach, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons resulting in the in-flight collision with trees during an emergency descent. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine rpm dropping after takeoff from a grass runway. Postaccident examination found no preimpact engine failure or fuel contamination. Fuel imbalance was noted between tanks, and no cause for the power loss was determined.
Accident Narrative
The pilot reported that during preflight inspection, the airplane had approximately 23 gallons of 100LL fuel in the main fuel tanks and no water was detected. An engine run-up performed before takeoff showed no discrepancies. After applying full power for takeoff, the pilot noted that the takeoff roll seemed slow, which he attributed to the warm day and medium height grass. The airplane cleared two tall trees at the departure end of the runway, after which the engine rpm dropped from 2,200 to 2,100. While descending, the airplane collided with trees and then the ground.
Postaccident Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel selector was positioned to "main." No evidence of water contamination was found, and a total of 13 gallons of fuel were drained from the left main fuel tank. No fuel was found in the right main fuel tank. The mechanic who performed the postaccident fuel system inspection believed that fuel from the right main fuel tank drained into the left main fuel tank due to the resting position of the airplane. No obstructions were noted in the fuel delivery or vent system. Examination of the engine showed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction.
Findings
No determination was made as to the reason for the reported loss of engine power.