Accident Details
On January 26, 2021, at approximately 1530 central standard time, a Zenair Zodiac 601 HDS airplane, registration N444PZ, was substantially damaged in an accident near Waller, Texas. The pilot was seriously injured. The flight was being conducted as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that the preflight run-up and takeoff were normal, and the engine appeared to be producing ample power. However, at an altitude of about 150 to 200 feet above ground level, the pilot heard two distinct "pops" followed by a loss of engine power. Subsequently, the pilot executed a forced landing to an open field. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.
Post-Accident Examination
An Federal Aviation Administration inspector who examined the accident scene noted that the fuel line at the engine-driven (mechanical) fuel pump inlet was separated from the pump fitting. A post-recovery engine examination revealed no anomalies with respect to the engine assembly or the reduction gearbox. During the examination, minimal fuel (one drop) was found in the engine-driven fuel pump, and no fuel was found in either carburetor bowl.