Accident Details
On September 5, 2023, at approximately 1942 eastern daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Van's RV-8, registration N772KS, was substantially damaged during an accident near Umatilla, Florida. The pilot, the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that during a prior flight earlier that day, the engine experienced a momentary power reduction when reducing power during initial climb but otherwise operated normally. After landing at Umatilla Municipal Airport (X23) and refueling, he did not perform an engine run-up before takeoff. During the accident flight's initial climb, approximately 150 feet above ground level with takeoff power applied, the engine began to sputter and cough before suffering a total loss of power. The pilot lowered the nose to maintain airspeed, switched the fuel tank selection from right to left, and verified the boost pump was on. With no runway remaining, he aimed for a grassy area across a lake past the departure end but was unable to reach it, impacting the lake. A witness video captured audio of the engine briefly reducing power and backfiring shortly after takeoff.
Postaccident Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. After recovery from the lake, the throttle, mixture, and propeller controls were found in the full forward position, the fuel selector on the left tank, and the boost pump switch in the ON position. An FAA inspector found the No. 3 cylinder spark plugs severely corroded, with the lower plug smelling of fuel and oil. Compression and suction were present on all cylinders when the propeller was rotated through 720 degrees. The fuel selector was operational, and fuel system continuity was confirmed from the tanks to the electric fuel boost pump. However, the rigid fuel line from the boost pump to the fuel sump was fractured and detached just beyond the attaching B-nut. The pump mounting bracket and surrounding fuselage structure were fractured and buckled. The electric fuel boost pump operated normally when powered.
Fuel and Maintenance Records
Fuel records showed the pilot purchased 16.423 gallons of 100LL aviation fuel at X23, and he reported having 40 gallons of 100LL aboard at departure. Maintenance records indicated a condition inspection was completed on July 24, 2023.