Pilot Debrief

CHRISTEN INDUSTRIES INC PITTS S-2B near Oakland, MS — 2009-07-08

Final reportERA09LA388
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Date
2009-07-08
Location
Oakland, MS, USA
Aircraft
CHRISTEN INDUSTRIES INC PITTS S-2B
Registration
N113DW
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power while maneuvering (after performing aerobatics) for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of aerobatic airplane departed an airport located about 16 miles from the accident site with approximately 18 gallons of fuel on board. He had completed several aerobatic maneuvers and was in a turn when the engine began to sputter and subsequently lost power. The airplane then descended at a 45-degree angle until it impacted trees, and came to rest in a heavily wooded area. Evidence of a fuel spill was present at the accident site. Postaccident examination of the airplane and engine did not reveal evidence of pre-impact malfunctions. At the time of the accident, the airplane had been operated for about 750 total hours, and about 40 hours since its most recent annual inspection, which was performed 8 months earlier.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted aerobatic maneuvers to ensure engine reliability.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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