About 100 Ft Above Ground Level, The Engine Exhibited A Reduction In Power To Idle RPM

Location: Garden Ridge, Texas Accident Number: CEN25LA009
Date & Time: October 8, 2024, 10:55 Local Registration: N2490H
Aircraft: Quicksilver GT 400 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Fuel starvation Injuries: 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot had recently performed maintenance to the engine carburetor and fuel lines, then completed multiple full-power engine tests before the accident flight. The preflight and engine run-up before takeoff were normal and no anomalies were noted. During the takeoff roll, the engine achieved full rpm. About 100 ft above ground level, the engine exhibited a reduction in power to idle rpm. Due to a stationary train car parked on a railroad track in his forward flight path, the pilot executed a low altitude right turn. During the turn, the pilot was unable to maintain adequate airspeed, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent impact with terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.

Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed the outlet fuel pump line was found to have an improperly sized clamp, the line was cracked, and fuel was leaking from the fuel pump line to the carburetor. No other mechanical issues were noted with the airplane or engine. Based on the fuel system evidence, it was likely the partial loss of engine power resulted from fuel starvation due to the improper maintenance of the fuel system.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- A loss of engine power that resulted from improper fuel system maintenance and the subsequent fuel starvation due to the leaking fuel pump outlet fuel line. 

FMI: www.ntsb.gov