Accident Overview
On March 25, 2010, at approximately 1533 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 120 (registration N72560) suffered a total loss of engine power during departure from Lee Airport (ANP) in Annapolis, Maryland. The airplane subsequently ditched in an adjacent river. The certificated commercial pilot was uninjured, while the airplane incurred substantial damage due to salt water immersion. The flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 as a ferry flight, with no flight plan filed. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that the airplane was out of annual inspection and was being ferried to Bay Bridge Airport (W29) in Stevensville, Maryland, under a ferry permit. The aircraft had not been flown for several months. During preflight, the pilot drained the fuel bowl, noting good fuel flow and no water. After engine start, a run-up showed normal magneto drop. During departure from runway 30, at an altitude of approximately 300 to 400 feet, the engine began losing power. The pilot initiated a right crosswind turn over water in an attempt to return to the runway, but the power loss continued, leading to a decision to ditch in the river.
Witness Observation
A witness observed the pilot taxiing to the active runway. During taxi, the engine quit. The pilot restarted the engine, ran it up briefly, and proceeded to the runway. As the airplane took off, the engine quit again, and the pilot executed a forced landing into the river.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage after it was submerged for several days. Residual fuel and trace amounts of water were found in both wing fuel tanks. Fuel lines showed no blockage, and no fuel was present in the lines. Engine valve train continuity was verified, and no flight control anomalies were identified. No records of the last refueling were available.