Accident Details
The pilot reported that, during a ferry flight, while climbing to cruise altitude, the engine temperatures increased quickly. The engine then surged and lost power. Subsequently, the pilot deployed the Cirrus airframe parachute system (CAPS).
According to the pilot's lawyer, after the engine surge, the pilot executed a rapid descent to improve engine breathing. The engine then lost power, prompting the pilot to activate the CAPS.
The aircraft made an off-airport landing in a field, during which it impacted an irrigation sprinkler system. The fuselage sustained substantial damage.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector and the airplane manufacturer revealed that the air reference line for the fuel injectors was found disconnected on the right-side bank at cylinder #1, and also disconnected at the aft baffling.
Maintenance History
The FAA inspector further reported that the airplane had flown 7 hours since maintenance, during which three cylinders had been repaired or replaced. This was the first time the mechanic had worked on the airplane for the owner. After the maintenance, the airplane was required to be flown at 10,000 feet or less for the first 10 hours.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported that the power loss occurred 12 minutes into the flight while passing through 10,000 feet to 15,000 feet. He applied the boost pump, adjusted the mixture lever, and finally deployed the CAPS parachute at 3,500 feet MSL. The pilot added that he had completed a flight 2-3 weeks prior.