Pilot Debrief

SHOEMAKER JAMES B KR-2 near Palmetto, FL — 2013-01-27

Final reportERA13LA119
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Date
2013-01-27
Location
Palmetto, FL, USA
Airport
48X
Aircraft
SHOEMAKER JAMES B KR-2
Registration
N27CE
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons, which resulted in a forced landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, before departure, he added 5 gallons of fuel, which increased the total amount of fuel in the tank to between 14 and 15 gallons. After engine start, he taxied to the approach end of the runway where he performed an engine run-up. He reported no discrepancies. He taxied onto the runway, applied full power, and reported achieving full rpm. While climbing between 300 and 400 feet, the engine suddenly quit, and the propeller stopped. The pilot maneuvered the airplane for a forced landing in a soft field. The airplane impacted the ground in a right- wing-low attitude, which caused the engine and fuel tank to separate. No fuel spillage or smell was noted at the accident scene, and only 2 ounces of fuel were found in the separated fuel tank. Postaccident examination of the engine revealed no fuel in the carburetor and only 1 cc of fuel in the fuel strainer. However, the reason for the lack of fuel could not be determined. Further examination of the engine revealed powertrain continuity and no evidence of preimpact failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot did not conduct annual condition inspections as required.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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