On February 18, 2006, a Champion 7FC (registration N7694E) operated by Stephen Larrabee was involved in an aviation accident near Dover-foxcroft, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection, which failed to detect ice in the fuel system, resulting in a loss of engine power during takeoff-initial climb, and an in-flight collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, an airplane experienced an engine power loss at 1,000 feet AGL. The pilot attempted restart and performed a forced landing, impacting trees and ground. No mechanical anomalies were found; the pilot later reported ice in the gascolator fuel bowl.
Accident Summary
During the climb after takeoff, the airplane reached an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet above ground level when the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. Subsequently, the pilot executed a forced landing. During the landing, the airplane impacted trees and then the ground.
Examination Findings
A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical anomalies. The specific cause of the power loss was not determined through the inspection of the airframe or engine components.
Pilot Report
The pilot later reported to an FAA inspector that after the accident, he removed the gascolator fuel bowl and observed ice in the bottom. The pilot also stated that he had performed a complete preflight inspection prior to takeoff.