Accident Details
On February 10, 2008, at approximately 1139 central standard time, a Piper PA-28-235, registration N9047W, was substantially damaged during a forced landing after initial takeoff from David Wayne Hooks Memorial Airport (DWH) in Houston, Texas. The private pilot, the sole occupant, was seriously injured. The flight originated from DWH at about 1135 for a personal flight under 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed.
Witness Observations
A witness reported that after departure, the airplane climbed to approximately 400 feet above ground level when the engine began sputtering. The pilot initiated a turn back toward the runway, but the engine subsequently quit. The pilot then elected to perform a forced landing to a nearby field. During the landing, the main landing gear separated from the airplane, and both wings sustained impact damage.
Post-Accident Examination
The airplane was transported to a secure facility for examination. An FAA inspector documented the scene and noted that the fuel selector was in the "Right Tip" position. Both main and tip fuel tanks were found breached. The NTSB conducted an examination with technical representatives from Piper Aircraft and Lycoming Engines. The fuel selector sump was removed and found full of fluid containing contaminated fuel and rust deposits. The contaminated fuel tested positive for water using water detection paste. The screen also showed rust accumulation. The carburetor was partially separated from the engine and contained a small amount of light brown liquid that also tested positive for water. The carburetor bowl and floats exhibited light brown stains consistent with rust. Additionally, the fuel selector detents were in a condition that made it difficult to discern the right main tank position, and the selector could easily pass the detent and select the right tip tank.
Pilot Interview
In a telephone interview, the pilot reported performing a normal preflight inspection, including checking all fuel tanks for water. The fuel selector was drained for approximately 10 seconds, but the fuel was not recovered because it was difficult to both actuate the drain and collect the drained fuel. The pilot did not recall finding a significant amount of water and did not collect the drained fuel. No difficulties were noted during takeoff from runway 17R. Once airborne, the engine quit without any warning. The pilot attempted a restart by switching fuel tanks but was unsuccessful.
Additional Findings
The airplane had been tied down on the ramp at DWH. The last annual inspection was completed on December 28, 2007, and no water intrusion into the fuel system was detected or reported. The pilot last fueled the main tanks on a flight near the beginning of January, and a flight was recorded on January 6, 2008. The pilot could not recall if the tip tanks were filled at that time. Weather data from DWH showed average rainfall of 0.11 inches between January 7 and February 10, 2008, with 0.79 inches on January 16.
The airplane was not required to have shoulder restraints installed; however, the lack of shoulder restraints contributed to the severity of the pilot's injuries.