Pilot Debrief

GOSSELIN CHARLES GLASTAR near Lee's Summit, MO — 2016-12-31

Final reportCEN17LA066
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Date
2016-12-31
Location
Lee's Summit, MO, USA
Aircraft
GOSSELIN CHARLES GLASTAR
Registration
N120CG
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

Partial failure of the electric system due to a battery short, which resulted in a total loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The private pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff in the experimental amateur-built airplane, the engine experienced a total loss of power. He was unable to restore power, and the airplane was substantially damaged during the subsequent forced landing. An examination of the engine and related systems revealed that one of two batteries required for operation of the electronic ignition system had a short and would not take a charge. When this battery was replaced with a known serviceable battery, the engine and systems functioned as designed. An examination of the remaining systems revealed no other anomalies.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked battery condition before departure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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