Pilot Debrief

PFOUTS ALFRED L SENIOR AERO SPT D260 near Palm Coast, FL — 2011-05-04

Final reportERA11LA282
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Date
2011-05-04
Location
Palm Coast, FL, USA
Aircraft
PFOUTS ALFRED L SENIOR AERO SPT D260
Registration
N705AP
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the automotive-type electric fuel boost pump was installed the day prior to the accident flight. Shortly after takeoff, he turned off the electric boost pump when the airplane was about 200 feet above the ground. He noted that fuel pressure was low with only the engine-driven pump operating. He turned the electric boost pump back on, and the fuel pressure returned to an acceptable level. While approaching his destination, the fuel pressure again dropped, and the engine lost power. The pilot performed a forced landing and the airplane collided with trees. Examination of the wreckage revealed adequate fuel in the wing tanks; however, there was no fuel in the gascolator. Both fuel pumps were removed and tested, revealing no mechanical anomalies. While it is likely that the loss of engine power was caused by fuel starvation, the investigation could not definitively exclude other possible scenarios for the loss of engine power or a cause for the fuel starvation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have kept the electric boost pump on after takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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