Pilot Debrief

HEISER ROBERT C JR PULSAR XP near San Angelo, TX — 2012-04-17

Final reportCEN12FA249
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Date
2012-04-17
Location
San Angelo, TX, USA
Airport
TS65
Aircraft
HEISER ROBERT C JR PULSAR XP
Registration
N912RV
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of a blocked fuel vent line.

NTSB narrative

The sport pilot reported that the airplane had not been flown in 4 months. Six gallons of fuel were in the right tank, and three gallons were in the left tank; right wing tank was selected during the accident flight. The engine start, taxi, and run-up were normal. About 4 minutes after engine start, the pilot taxied onto the runway and departed. He reported that the airplane climbed to about 50 feet above ground level when the engine had a total loss of engine power. The airplane landed in a field and sustained substantial damage. During postaccident examination, the fuel tanks, fuel lines, and fuel strainer were checked for debris and water contamination, but none were observed. The engine-driven mechanical fuel pump, the electric fuel pump, and the engine all were tested and operated normally. However, the outboard section of right wing fuel vent line was blocked by debris. The blockage was removed from the fuel vent line; it measured about ¼-inch wide at its widest and about ½-inch long. The blocked fuel vent line likely created a vacuum, which resulted in fuel starvation to the engine.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel vent blockage before takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 12 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents12

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