Pilot Debrief

BEECH B19 near Rockohoma, NY — 2010-06-05

Final reportERA10LA297
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Date
2010-06-05
Location
Rockohoma, NY, USA
Airport
ISP
Aircraft
BEECH B19
Registration
N1958W
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection which resulted in a total loss of engine power during the initial climb due to fuel contamination.

NTSB narrative

According to the certified flight instructor (CFI), he and the student were planning to practice takeoffs and landings. During the first takeoff approximately 400 feet above ground level, the engine power began to degrade and lose power. The CFI took control of the airplane, checked the throttle and mixture position and looked for a suitable place to perform a forced landing. During the landing, the airplane impacted a nearby parking lot, came to rest against a building, and was engulfed in fire. A postaccident examination revealed several tablespoons of water in the carburetor. The CFI reported that he had completed a normal preflight inspection. Examination of the fuel system did not disclose any evidence of a mechanical malfunction.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Properly check fuel selector position before takeoff to ensure fuel flow.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents9

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