Pilot Debrief

Avid MK-4 near Harnett, NC — 2018-08-30

Final reportERA18LA239
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Date
2018-08-30
Location
Harnett, NC, USA
Airport
HRJ
Aircraft
Avid MK-4
Registration
N628X
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Descent

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.

NTSB narrative

The pilot departed on a 35-nautical-mile flight with 9 gallons of fuel onboard. While en route, he noticed that the fuel quantity was decreasing faster than normal, and he elected to stop for fuel. During the descent toward the airport, the engine lost total power and the pilot subsequently performed a forced landing in a field. After touchdown, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. Examination of the airplane and engine revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical anomalies that would have prevented normal engine operation. About 1/2 gallon of fuel was drained from the fuel tank after the accident; however, an unquantified amount spilled onto the ground during recovery, and the amount of fuel onboard at the time of the accident could not be determined. The right wing fuel tank was vented by a modified fuel cap. Holes were drilled in the top of the cap to allow air in the tank as fuel is consumed. The pilot recommended that a forward-facing tube vent be installed per a service letter issue by the kit manufacturer of a similar experimental, amateur-built airplane; however, the reason for loss of engine power and whether the modified fuel cap contributed to the accident could not be determined based on the available information.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot should have refueled before the flight due to fuel contamination issue.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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