Pilot Debrief

DENNIS l ZUMBALT SKY BOLT near Deming, NM — 2019-03-23

Final reportWPR19LA101
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Date
2019-03-23
Location
Deming, NM, USA
Aircraft
DENNIS l ZUMBALT SKY BOLT
Registration
N254PM
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to properly position the fuel selector before takeoff, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.

NTSB narrative

Before takeoff, the pilot fueled the airplane’s main header fuel tank with 25 gallons of automotive fuel. Shortly after takeoff, about 400 ft above ground level, the engine lost total power. The pilot performed a forced landing to a dirt field, during which the airplane landed hard and impacted a sand dune, resulting in substantial damage. Examination of the fuel system revealed that the fuel selector was selected to the AUX/wing fuel tank position. The pilot stated that he never fueled the AUX/wing tank, and that he only filled and operated off the main header tank. The pilot reported, and examination confirmed, that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The accident is consistent with a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot’s failure to correctly position the fuel selector prior to departure.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have verified fuel selection before takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents8

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