Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA 18-150 near Wasilla, AK — 2018-06-02

Final reportANC18LA040
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Date
2018-06-02
Location
Wasilla, AK, USA
Airport
55AK
Aircraft
PIPER PA 18-150
Registration
N624MW
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, shortly after departure for a cross-country flight, the engine lost total power. He was unable to return to the runway, and the airplane impacted trees, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings and rudder. A postaccident engine examination revealed small unidentified contaminants in the gascolator and carburetor bowl. The amount and size of the contaminants were not enough that would be expected to cause a total loss of engine power. After the examination, an engine test run was conducted with no hesitations or anomalies observed.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel levels before departure to prevent fuel starvation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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