Accident Details
On August 21, 2012, at approximately 1740 central daylight time, a Thorp T-18 experimental amateur-built airplane, registration N2443, sustained substantial damage when it impacted terrain during an attempted takeoff from Gilmer Municipal Airport (JXI) in Gilmer, Texas. The flight, operated under Part 91 as a personal flight, was destined for Denton, Texas. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed.
Pilot and Passenger Injuries
The airline transport pilot sustained minor injuries, while the pilot-rated passenger sustained serious injuries. The aircraft came to rest upright after striking several trees.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, the fuel tanks were three-quarters full. Prior to takeoff, an engine run-up was completed with no problems noted. Shortly after takeoff, engine rpm decreased from 2,300 to 1,500 rpm. The pilot attempted to restore engine power but was unsuccessful and executed a forced landing to tree-covered terrain.
Engine Maintenance Records
The engine had undergone a conditional inspection on September 1, 2011, at a tachometer time of 930.9 hours. The most recent overhaul was completed on March 23, 2003, at a tachometer time of 593.4 hours.
Post-Accident Examination
On September 21, 2012, at Air Salvage of Dallas in Lancaster, Texas, the engine was examined under the supervision of a Federal Aviation Administration inspector. The examination revealed that the fuel line from the fuel pump to the metering unit was disconnected at the metering unit. No other anomalies were noted with the engine.
Aircraft and Registration
The Thorp T-18 experimental airplane, N2443, was registered to McClendon Associates and was operated by the pilot.