Pilot Debrief

ODEN WELDON PAT KITFOX IV SPEEDSTER near Blackwell, TX — 2014-07-20

Final reportCEN14FA377
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Date
2014-07-20
Location
Blackwell, TX, USA
Aircraft
ODEN WELDON PAT KITFOX IV SPEEDSTER
Registration
N622P
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of airplane control following a loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.

NTSB narrative

The commercial pilot was conducting a local flight. According to the pilot's wife, the pilot left for the airstrip that morning, and he indicated that he was going to adjust the carburetor on the airplane's engine. Local law enforcement located the accident site later that night. Wreckage documentation was indicative of the airplane being in a left downward spiral at the time of impact. Examination of the composite propeller revealed no signs indicating that it was turning at impact, which is consistent with the engine not producing power. Flight control continuity was confirmed. An examination of the engine showed it had an aftermarket throttle body system in lieu of the carburetors and an intake manifold. The engine manufacturer had previously released a service bulletin indicating that the use of any third party after-market replacement kits, modifications, and nongenuine manufacturer components or accessories was not approved and may result in engine damage and/or failure and personal injury and/or death. However, the examination showed no preimpact anomalies that would have precluded the engine from producing normal power. Drugs identified in the pilot's toxicology were determined to not be impairing.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen not to fly with unapproved engine modifications.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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