Pilot Debrief

RUDDER DWIGHT K KITFOX IV 1200 SPDST near Raymond, MS — 2017-09-05

Final reportERA17LA314
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Date
2017-09-05
Location
Raymond, MS, USA
Airport
PVT
Aircraft
RUDDER DWIGHT K KITFOX IV 1200 SPDST
Registration
N16KR
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power during initial climb for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that, after takeoff, the engine lost partial power at an altitude about 250 ft above ground level. He attempted to restore power by adjusting the throttle but was unsuccessful. Shortly thereafter, the engine lost all power and the pilot performed a forced landing to a field. During the landing roll, the airplane impacted a log and nosed over, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. Postaccident examination and test run of the engine revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction that would have precluded normal operation. Atmospheric conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to light carburetor icing at cruise or descent power; however, the airplane was operating at takeoff power at the time of the power loss. Thus, the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined based on the available information.

Analysis

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

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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