Pilot Debrief

SAVAGE AIR LLC EPIC LT near San Saba, TX — 2012-08-04

Final reportCEN12FA561
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Date
2012-08-04
Location
San Saba, TX, USA
Airport
81R
Aircraft
SAVAGE AIR LLC EPIC LT
Registration
N603JS
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

The improper installation of flexible fuel lines, which resulted in a partial collapse of the inner wall of the fuel lines and a subsequent a loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the experimental, amateur-built airplane was in cruise climb when he noticed a gradual loss of fuel pressure, so he diverted to a nearby airport. The engine fuel pressure continued to drop, and the engine then lost total power. The airplane landed hard on the runway, which resulted in substantial damage to the composite wing structure and breached both wing fuel tanks. An examination of the engine revealed no defects or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. An examination of the steel-braided flexible fuel lines removed from the electric fuel boost pump showed that two of the lines were installed twisted and that one of the lines was kinked and installed with a bend radius tighter than specified. The improper installation of the fuel lines caused a permanent set in the steel braid and a subsequent partial collapse of the inner wall of the fuel lines, which resulted in the partial blockage of fuel flow through the line and a subsequent loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have opted for an earlier diversion upon first noticing fuel pressure drop.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 9 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents9

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