Accident Overview
On July 23, 2011, at approximately 0752 eastern daylight time, a Champion 7ECA, registration N5191X, experienced a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff from Midcoast Regional Airport (LHW) in Hinesville, Georgia. The private pilot and a passenger were on a personal flight under 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.
According to the pilot, the airplane had climbed to about 900 feet when the engine lost all power. He initiated a turn back toward the airport. During the approach to land, the airplane stalled and collided with an airport fence. The pilot sustained serious injuries, and the passenger reported minor injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and wings.
Examination Findings
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and found no anomalies with the airframe or flight controls. However, examination of the carburetor revealed a large piece of foam from the air filter element lodged in the carburetor venturi inlet. The inspector stated that the air filter element had been installed improperly, causing the foam element to separate and be drawn into the carburetor inlet.
Review of the airplane's logbooks showed that an engine overhaul had been completed 31 hours before the accident. According to the pilot, a Brackett Aero Filter air filter element was installed during that overhaul.
Performance Data
Performance data for the Champion 7ECA indicates that the airplane stalls at 44 knots.