Incident Overview
A pilot experienced engine power loss during a second takeoff attempt, leading to a runway overrun. The temperature was 96 degrees Fahrenheit, and the density altitude was calculated to be 6,273 feet mean sea level. The pilot was conducting a local flight to verify the airplane's performance.
Sequence of Events
The pilot initially aborted the first takeoff attempt due to a loss of available engine power. He landed the airplane on the runway and taxied back to the run-up area for another attempt. During a subsequent run-up at full power, no anomalies were noted. On the second takeoff attempt, the airplane climbed to approximately 60 feet before the engine lost power. The pilot performed a forced landing on the remaining runway, after which the airplane overran the surface and encountered rough terrain.
Post-Accident Inspection
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector conducted an inspection and test-run of the engine following the accident. No operational anomalies were found during this examination.
Environmental Conditions
High atmospheric temperatures (96°F) contributed to a calculated density altitude of 6,273 feet. Such conditions increase the likelihood of vapor lock, a phenomenon where heated fuel lines cause the contained fuel to vaporize. Vapor lock can lead to partial or complete interruption of fuel flow to the engine, potentially explaining the power loss experienced.