Pilot Debrief

Chris Mitchell TITAN TORNADO near Chadbourn, NC — 2009-06-18

Final reportERA09LA356
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Date
2009-06-18
Location
Chadbourn, NC, USA
Aircraft
Chris Mitchell TITAN TORNADO
Registration
N259CM
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain aircraft control during initial climb following a loss of engine power. The reason for the power loss was not determined.

NTSB narrative

Witnesses observed the pilot perform a normal engine run-up prior to takeoff. Shortly after takeoff they heard a momentary reduction in power, followed by an increase, before the engine completely lost power. The pilot initiated a right turn back to the airstrip and the witnesses observed the airplane stall, enter a spin, and impact the ground. Inspection of the wreckage revealed that the airplane impacted the ground at a steep angle and came to rest inverted. Fuel spillage was evident at the accident site. The fuel selector handle was found in an intermediate position (not on or off); however, this condition was observed after the extraction of the pilot from the wreckage. The engine was sent to the manufacturer’s facilities where a test run was performed. Multiple runs were accomplished and no evidence of a malfunction or failure was noted.

Analysis

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

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents11

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