Accident Overview
On July 4, 2021, at approximately 1252 eastern daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built RV-7A (N654C) was destroyed in an accident near Pottstown, Pennsylvania. The sole occupant, the pilot and owner-builder of the aircraft, was not injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot and Preflight Details
The pilot reported that a preflight inspection and engine run-up were normal. At the time of the accident, the aircraft had accumulated about 3.4 total flight hours. The airplane logbooks were in the aircraft at the time of the accident.
Engine Failure and Impact
During the initial climb after takeoff, at an altitude of 800 ft mean sea level, the engine experienced a complete loss of power. The pilot attempted to return to the airport, but the aircraft struck terrain short of the runway. A postcrash fire ensued.
Post-Accident Examination
According to the Federal Aviation Administration inspector who examined the wreckage, only the outer portions of both wings and a part of the tail were undamaged by the fire. The engine and cockpit suffered extensive fire damage. The electric ignition system, wiring harness, and fuel pumps were fractured and melted. The aircraft was equipped with a Subaru engine. The automotive fuel used by the pilot to fuel the aircraft was stored in a bucket in the pilot's hangar; it contained no water or visible contaminants.