Pilot Debrief

KITFOX SERIES 5 near Kamiah, ID — 2014-08-09

Final reportWPR14CA333
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Date
2014-08-09
Location
Kamiah, ID, USA
Airport
S73
Aircraft
KITFOX SERIES 5
Registration
N910MK
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

A loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot's failure to open the fuel shutoff valves for each fuel tank before takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported during preflight refueling he closed a fuel shutoff valve located at each wing root to prevent cross feeding. Upon starting the engine and preparing for takeoff the pilot verified that the main fuel valve was in the on position, but failed to open the fuel shutoff valve located on each wing causing the engine to run only from the approximate 1.5 gallons of fuel contained in the header tank. Just after takeoff the engine lost power as a result of fuel starvation. During the subsequent off airport forced landing the airplane sustained substantial damage to left and right wings, empennage, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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