Pilot Debrief

BECK MICHAEL J SONEX near Auburn, WA — 2024-01-16

Final reportWPR24LA074
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Date
2024-01-16
Location
Auburn, WA, USA
Airport
S50
Aircraft
BECK MICHAEL J SONEX
Registration
N920MB
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

Water contamination within the fuel regulator air-reference system, which resulted in improper fuel metering and a loss of engine power during initial climb.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the experimental amateur-built airplane experienced a partial and then total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot performed a forced landing onto a road, where the airplane collided with a signpost and sustained substantial damage. Postaccident examination revealed no mechanical anomalies with the engine or airframe fuel delivery system that would have precluded normal operation. However, water was found within the throttle body injector air-reference line and regulator diaphragm. This contamination likely led to inadequate fuel regulation, resulting in the power fluctuations observed by the pilot and eventual power loss. The investigation could not determine how water entered the system.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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