Accident Overview
On October 21, 2020, at approximately 1150 Pacific daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Glasair III airplane, registration N1YX, was substantially damaged during a forced landing on a golf course near Hayward, California. The pilot sustained serious injuries. The airplane was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that on the day of the accident, he intended to return the airplane to its owner in Oregon. He added 15 gallons of fuel to the tank, believing that 15 gallons were already present. The takeoff was described as smooth and normal, but shortly thereafter the engine lost all power. The pilot stated that he did not change the fuel selector position, as “it was always in both.” He subsequently executed a forced landing on a golf course, during which the airplane struck two trees.
Witness Observations
Multiple witnesses reported hearing unusual engine noises after the pilot started the engine. One witness heard a deep thumping sound before takeoff, and another reported popping sounds and observed black smoke trailing from the airplane after departure.
Mechanic's Statement
A mechanic who had known the pilot for several years reported that he had performed some work on the airplane, including replacing the propeller, but had not finished the work due to other priorities. When he later inspected the airplane, the work had been completed by an unknown individual. The mechanic noted that the pilot was not an A&P mechanic.
Postaccident Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fuel filter cartridge was clogged with corrosion, and the fuel filter bypass was rendered inoperative due to corrosion. Maintenance logbooks were not available for review, so the historical data for the fuel filter could not be determined during the investigation.
Additional Information
The pilot did not submit the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report Form 6120.1.