Initial Investigation Finds No Fuel In In-Line Fuel Filter

A pilot flying an experimental aircraft for the first time since it was damaged in an earlier incident was seriously injured when the airplane went down shortly after takeoff. Witnesses said they heard the engine "sputter" and then stop running, and the FAA's initial investigation showed no fuel in the in-line fuel filter on the aircraft. We'll have to wait for the probable cause report to determine if it really is that cut-and-dried.

NTSB Identification: ERA12LA285
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, April 15, 2012 in Salem, WV
Aircraft: WILLOUGHBY PETE A STREAK SHADOW, registration: N2828W
Injuries: 1 Serious.

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed.

On April 15, 2012, about 1730 eastern daylight time, an experimental Willoughby Streak Shadow, N2828W, was substantially damaged following a loss of engine power and collision with terrain near Salem, West Virginia. The airline transport pilot was seriously injured. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The local flight was originating at the time of the accident.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the pilot was flying the airplane for the first time since it was repaired from earlier damage. A witness reported that, shortly after takeoff, the engine sputtered and stopped running. The airplane was observed in a left turn until it collided with wooded terrain.

An FAA inspector responded to the accident site and examined the wreckage. Structural damage to the wings was evident. The fuel tank was ruptured. No fuel was observed in the in-line fuel filter. The wreckage was recovered to a storage facility where a more detailed examination will be conducted.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov