Pilot Debrief

CIRRUS DESIGN CORP SR20 near New Orleans, LA — 2011-11-20

Final reportCEN12LA076
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Date
2011-11-20
Location
New Orleans, LA, USA
Aircraft
CIRRUS DESIGN CORP SR20
Registration
N211CD
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

A loss of engine power due to detonation of the No.2 cylinder from a clogged fuel injector nozzle.

NTSB narrative

Shortly after takeoff in instrument meteorological conditions over water, the pilot observed the No. 2 cylinder head temperature (CHT) rapidly increase followed by a drop in oil pressure. He declared an emergency and attempted to return to the airport, but the engine failed and the propeller seized. The pilot landed safely on the water and was rescued by a local fisherman. Examination of the engine revealed the No. 2 fuel injector nozzle was clogged resulting in detonation of the No. 2 cylinder. A review of maintenance records revealed that each of the fuel injector nozzles was removed and cleaned 5 days before the accident. The pilot said he had the nozzles cleaned because he noticed a high CHT on the No. 2 cylinder during a cross-country flight. After the nozzles were cleaned, they were placed back on the engine and two separate engine runs were conducted. No anomalies were noted. The pilot then flew a 2.5 hour cross-country flight without incident. However, on the pilot's next flight, which was the accident flight, the engine failed due to detonation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have opted for a precautionary landing after high CHT was noted.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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