Pilot Debrief

VANS RV8 near Smithville, TX — 2024-12-10

Final reportCEN25LA058
Sign in to save
Date
2024-12-10
Location
Smithville, TX, USA
Airport
84R
Aircraft
VANS RV8
Registration
N42CS
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The airplane was filled with fuel before takeoff. Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of 100 to 150 ft above ground level (agl) the airplane’s engine began to lose power and then lost total power. The pilot reported he leveled the wings; however, the airplane entered an aerodynamic stall before it descended and impacted an open field. The engine started and ran to normal operating power during a postaccident engine test run. Although the engine continued to operate although the ignition switch was moved to the “off” position, the issue would not have led to a loss of power. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Analysis

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

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

Related mishaps