DOTSON WILLIAM P SNGL SEAT HAWK ARROW near Carthage, NC — 2011-06-20

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power due to the pilot’s improper installation of the engine’s No. 1 cylinder spark plugs.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, during the turn from the base leg to final approach, the engine experienced a partial loss of power. He performed a forced landing into some small trees because he knew he could not glide the airplane to the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wing spars. A postaccident examination revealed that a spark plug was backed out of the No. 1 cylinder and was suspended from the electrode wire. The pilot reported that he had changed the engine spark plugs the day before the accident and that he may have cross-threaded one of them.

NTSB coding

• Loss of engine power (partial) · Approach-VFR pattern base
• Maintenance

Evidence available

• Photos
• 5 docket documents

Docket documents5

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Pilot Interview Summaryinterview
• Carthage NC (SOP) Meteorological Conditionsother
• Photo 1 - View of spark plugs (Courtesy of FAA)photos
• Photo 2 - Wreckage Overview (Courtesy of FAA)photos

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