Pilot Debrief

Piper PA18 near Brandon, MN — 2020-08-15

Final reportCEN20LA343
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Date
2020-08-15
Location
Brandon, MN, USA
Aircraft
Piper PA18
Registration
N2510H
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The partial loss of engine power during takeoff due to carburetor icing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot landed to the south, taxied to the end of the runway, and took off to the north from his private grass airstrip. During the takeoff, the engine lost then regained power shortly after the airplane became airborne. The pilot elected to continue the takeoff due to the remaining runway available. While maneuvering toward an open field and away from obstacles, the airplane struck a 4-foot-high steel fence post. The airplane spun, traveled about 150 feet and came to rest. A postimpact fire ensued as both occupants exited with minor injuries. Flight control continuity was confirmed to all flight control surfaces. Due to the severe postimpact fire, engine drive continuity could not be confirmed, but engine control continuity was confirmed. Weather conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to serious carburetor icing at glide power. Since the pilot had taxied at a low power setting prior to taking off and reported that the airplane lost then regained engine power, the momentary loss of engine power was most likely due to carburetor icing.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff after initial power loss instead of continuing.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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