Pilot Debrief

MAYS KITFOX LITE 2 near Cedarville, CA — 2012-04-22

Final reportWPR12LA182
Sign in to save
Date
2012-04-22
Location
Cedarville, CA, USA
Aircraft
MAYS KITFOX LITE 2
Registration
N32122
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

A loss of engine power during cruise flight due to air in the fuel system. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s incorrect maintenance that did not properly secure the fuel lines.

NTSB narrative

The pilot, who did not hold a repairman or mechanic certification, reported that he had been replacing the fuel lines. About 1 hour into the flight, the engine lost power, and the pilot initiated a forced landing in a field. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed over. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel lines were secured with tie wraps. The tie wraps secured the lines in an oval shape, which could introduce air into the fuel system and result in a loss of engine power. No additional mechanical malfunctions or failures were found that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Properly secure fuel lines to prevent air from entering the system.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

Related mishaps