SEA03LA075

SEA03LA075NTSB Identification: SEA03LA075
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Tuesday, April 29, 2003 in Bellingham, WA
Aircraft: DeJager RV-6, registration: N239D
Injuries: 1 Minor.

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 29, 2003, approximately 0915 Pacific daylight time a homebuilt DeJager RV-6, N239D, registered to/operated and being flown by a Canadian commercial pilot sustained substantial damage when the aircraft nosed over on landing roll following a loss of power and forced landing approximately two nautical miles northeast of Bellingham, Washington. The pilot incurred minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions existed and no flight plan had been filed. The flight, which was personal, was operated under 14 CFR 91, and originated from the Blaine Municipal airport, Blaine, Washington, approximately 0745 on the morning of the accident.

The pilot reported in a telephonic interview that after he had departed Blaine and conducted practice touch and go landings at a local airport he was returning to Blaine. While established in cruise at 3,500 feet above mean sea level the power began to decay, dropping off within 60-90 seconds to a level which would not sustain flight. The pilot executed a forced landing crossing a shallow pond during which the aircraft nosed over coming to rest inverted in about two feet of water. Several bystanders lifted the aircraft's tail allowing the pilot to slide the canopy aft and extricate himself from the aircraft.

FTW03LA139NTSB Identification: FTW03LA139
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Tuesday, April 22, 2003 in Canton, TX
Aircraft: Hackney Vans RV-6A, registration: N528DH
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

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 22, 2003, approximately 2020 central daylight time, a Hackney Vans RV-6A experimental homebuilt airplane, N528DH, exited the runway and came to rest inverted during the landing flare/touchdown at a private grass airstrip near Canton, Texas. The airplane was owned by a private individual and flown by the pilot under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The commercial pilot was not injured, and the airplane sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight, and a flight plan was not filed. The cross-country flight originated from Anadarko Municipal Airport (F68), Anadarko, Oklahoma at approximately 1800 CDT.

Local authorities and airport personnel reported that the 2,500-foot runway did not have runway lights. They further reported that the airplane fuselage, vertical stabilizer, and rudder were damaged.

The pilot reported that during the landing flare/touchdown the landing light became inoperative. The airplane landed in soft terrain to the side of the runway, the nose landing gear collapsed, and the airplane came to rest inverted.

LAX03LA101NTSB Identification: LAX03LA101
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, February 28, 2003 in Deer Valley, AZ
Aircraft: Creitz, Robert D RV-3, registration: N87BC
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

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 February 28, 2003, about 1020 mountain standard time, an experimental RV-3, N87BC, experienced a total loss of engine power and made a forced landing on a dirt access road about 4 miles north of Deer Valley, Arizona. The commercial pilot/owner was operating the airplane under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. The commercial pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured; the airplane sustained substantial damage. The personal local flight departed Deer Valley about 0945. Day visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed. The primary wreckage was at 33 degrees 47.30 minutes north latitude and 112 degrees 07.45 minutes west longitude.

In a telephone interview, the pilot related that while flying in the area north of Deer Valley he noticed a decrease in engine power. He applied carburetor heat and turned on the fuel boost pump; he also manipulated the throttle.

When the engine quit, the pilot declared an emergency and advised the tower he was making a forced landing. He chose to make the landing on a dirt service road adjacent to the eastside of Highway 17 about a 1/2 mile south of Highway 74, approximately 4 nautical miles north of the Phoenix Deer Valley airport (DVT).

The dirt road was muddy due to previous rain showers. After touchdown the airplane's landing gear struck a rock in the mud. The airplane came to rest inverted, and the pilot was not able to extract himself from the wreckage without assistance from witnesses who stopped to help.

MIA03LA035NTSB Identification: MIA03LA035
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, January 01, 2003 in Peachtree City, GA
Aircraft: Lonnie Johnson RV6A, registration: N559LJ
Injuries: 1 Minor.

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 January 1, 2003, about 1655 eastern standard time, a homebuilt RV6A, N559LJ, registered to a private individual, crashed approximately 715 feet south-southeast of the approach end of runway 31 at the Peachtree City Airport-Falcon Field, Peachtree City, Georgia. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private-rated pilot, the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The flight originated about 1540 from the Waycross-Ware County Airport, Waycross, Georgia.

The pilot stated the fuel tanks were filled before departure; no fuel contamination was noted during the preflight. The flight departed and approximately 45 minutes into the flight, he repositioned the fuel selector to the right tank. The flight continued and approximately 15 minutes later, he noticed a slight rpm drop. He applied throttle input to compensate for the rpm decrease and switched to the UNICOM frequency. He elected to perform a practice localizer approach to runway 31 and after crossing the localizer, he turned on the auxiliary fuel pump, applied carburetor heat, and reduced power. At that time, the engine quit completely like a normal shutdown using the mixture control. He repositioned the fuel selector to the left tank which was unsuccessful in restoring engine power. He also turned off the auxiliary fuel pump, and turned it back on after engine power was not restored. Additionally, he removed and reapplied carburetor heat which was also unsuccessful in restoring engine power. He established best glide airspeed of 75-80 miles-per-hour, and after clearing a railroad embankment, turned left to avoid approach lights. After recognizing that he was unable to land on the runway, he lowered full flaps, and slowed to just above stall speed. The wheel pants of both main landing gears made contact with an elevated concrete sewer access, followed by ground contact approximately 20 feet later. The airplane came to rest inverted; the pilot evacuated the airplane by cutting a portion of the canopy with a survival tool.

FTW03LA049NTSB Identification: FTW03LA049
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Monday, November 25, 2002 in Homer, LA
Aircraft: Girard RV-4, registration: N5246
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

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 November 25, 2002, approximately 0730 central standard time, a Girard RV-4 single-engine experimental airplane, N5246, was destroyed after an in-flight collision with terrain while maneuvering near Homer, Louisiana. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot. The non-instrument rated private pilot and his passenger sustained fatal injuries. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident, and a flight plan was not filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The cross-country flight originated from the Homer Municipal Airport, at approximately 0725, and was destined for the pilot's private airstrip near Beaux Bridge, Louisiana.

According to an FAA inspector, who traveled to the accident site, witnesses reported it was "extremely foggy" when the airplane departed from runway 30. After takeoff the airplane made a right turn paralleling the departure runway, subsequently impacting a marsh area which surrounded the airport. The energy path began with the initial impact with trees approximately 30 feet high, the airplane coming to rest nose down in approximately 3 feet of water. The FAA inspector reported that the airplane was destroyed from the cabin area forward.

At 0721, the weather reporting facility located at the Shreveport Downtown Airport (DTN), Shreveport, Louisiana, (located 47 miles southwest of the accident site) issued a special weather report, which reported wind 300 degrees at 4 knots, visibility 1/2 statute mile, fog, ceiling 200 feet overcast, temperature 11 degrees C, dew point 11 degrees C, and an altimeter of 30.12 inches of Mercury.

At 0714, the weather reporting facility located at the Monroe Regional Airport (MLU), Monroe, Louisiana, (located 55 miles southeast of the accident site) issued a special weather report, which reported winds calm, visibility 2 1/2 statute miles, mist, few clouds at 100 feet, temperature 6 degrees C, dew point 6 degrees C, and an altimeter of 30.14 inches of Mercury.

CHI03LA026NTSB Identification: CHI03LA026. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Tuesday, November 19, 2002 in Belton, MO
Aircraft: A Pair of Jacks RV-6A, registration: N94KT
Injuries: 1 Minor.

On November 19, 2002, about 1400 central standard time, an amateur-built RV-6A, N94KT, piloted by a private pilot, sustained substantial damage when it nosed over during landing on the owner's private airstrip near Belton, Missouri. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, received minor injuries. The flight departed from Phillip Billird Municipal Airport, Topeka, Kansas, at 1343.

CHI03LA016NTSB Identification: CHI03LA016. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, October 27, 2002 in Lake Geneva, WI
Aircraft: LaFerriere Vans RV-4, registration: N994RV
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

On October 27, 2002, at 1300 central standard time, an amateur-built LaFerriere Vans RV-4 airplane, N994RV, owned and piloted by a private pilot, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a loss engine power shortly after takeoff. The airplane had just departed runway 22 (2,300 feet x 40 feet, asphalt) at the Lake Geneva Aire Estates Airport (WI89), Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The flight was being conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 and was not on a flight plan. The pilot and passenger reported no injuries. The intended destination was the Burlington Municipal Airport (BUU), Burlington, Wisconsin, approximately eight miles to the north.

IAD03IA017NTSB Identification: IAD03IA017
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Incident occurred Tuesday, October 22, 2002 in LEESBURG, VA
Aircraft: CRAIG N. MOEN RV-8, registration: N184CM
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On October 22, 2002, about 1600 eastern standard time, a homebuilt RV-8, N184CM, experienced a failure of the right ignition system during descent into Leesburg Executive Airport (JYO), Leesburg, Virginia. The airplane landed uneventfully, and the certificated private pilot/builder/owner was not injured. No flight plan was filed for the flight that originated at Elizabethtown Airport, (4W1), Elizabethtown, North Carolina, about 1400. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

MIA03LA002NTSB Identification: MIA03LA002
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, October 06, 2002 in Tuskegee, AL
Aircraft: Golden RV6A, registration: N609CG
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

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 October 6, 2002, about 0905 central daylight time, an experimental amateur built Golden RV6A, N609CG, registered to and operated by an individual, impacted the ground at the Moton Field Municipal Airport, Tuskegee, Alabama. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The airplane was destroyed. The private-rated pilot, and one passenger were fatally injured. The flight had originated from Greenville, Alabama, about 0830.

Witnesses saw the airplane with the propeller windmilling above the runway at midfield. The airplane turned towards the runway, the nose pitched up, and the airplane descended nose low impacting the ground right wing and nose low. The airplane impacted the ground about 200 feet to the right of the runway centerline, and cart wheeled before coming to rest. Fuel was found in the airplane's fuel system. The airplane was equipped with a Chevrolet 262 cubic inch V-6 engine. The engine is being removed from the crash site and will be examined in more detail at a later date.

MIA02LA169NTSB Identification: MIA02LA169. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Monday, September 16, 2002 in Bay Minette, AL
Probable Cause Approval Date: 2/25/03
Aircraft: Charles Maxted RV6, registration: N440CM
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

The pilot stated that during a previous flight, the engine rpm decreased 150 to 175 rpm after switching fuel tanks. He elected to land at the Bay Minette Municipal Airport. While there, 5 gallons of 100 low lead fuel were added and he talked with a mechanic at the airport. He also performed an engine run-up and the engine sounded, "...OK. Not rough as before." He decided to depart intending to climb to 3,000 or 4,000 feet, remaining close to the airport, before deciding to continue to the initial intended destination airport. The engine ran OK until just after liftoff, when the engine began to run rough again. He aborted the takeoff, and landed uneventfully but was unable to stop the airplane on the runway. He intentionally ground looped the airplane to avoid a fence and a 8-foot embankment. The pilot stated to the Federal Aviation Administration inspector-in-charge (FAA-IIC), that after landing at Bay Minette, he ran the engine which ran rough. Maintenance personnel at Bay Minette advised him that he had a bad right magneto, and repairs could be performed. He (pilot) again ran the engine reporting no magneto drop during the run. He elected to takeoff and continue to his original destination airport. Following recovery of the airplane, in the presence of the FAA-IIC, the engine was started but could only be operated to between 1,000 and 1,200 rpm due to damage to the engine mount. During the engine run, a magneto check was performed but a rpm decrease could not be detected. Examination of the right magneto revealed that the points were not opening resulting in an inoperative magneto.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The intentional operation of the airplane with known deficiencies with the right magneto resulting in the partial loss of engine power during the initial climb.

CHI02LA278NTSB Identification: CHI02LA278
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Tuesday, September 10, 2002 in Brodhead, WI
Aircraft: Lorin RV-8A, registration: N54LF
Injuries: 1 Minor, 1 Uninjured.

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 September 10, 2002, at 1230 central daylight time, an amateur-built Lorin RV-8A, N54LF, sustained substantial damage during landing at the Brodhead Airport, Brodhead, Wisconsin. During the landing, the nose landing gear strut bent rearward and the airplane nosed over. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was conducted in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan. The pilot was not injured and his passenger received minor injuries. The local flight originated at an undetermined time.

NYC02LA182NTSB Identification: NYC02LA182
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Thursday, September 05, 2002 in Oxford, OH
Aircraft: Duffy Vans RV-9A, registration: N945D
Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Uninjured.

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 September 5, 2002, at 2137 eastern daylight time, a homebuilt Vans RV-9A, N945D, was substantially damaged during a forced landing in Oxford, Ohio. The certificated private pilot was seriously injured, and his passenger was uninjured. Visual instrument conditions prevailed at the time. No flight plan had been filed for the local flight, which originated at Miami University Airport (OXF), Oxford, Ohio. The personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the pilot advised Cincinnati Approach Control on an emergency frequency that he was "going down" due to a loss of engine power. During the forced landing, the airplane flipped onto its back.

After the accident, the pilot stated that he had run out of fuel, and a subsequent examination of the airplane confirmed the absence of fuel.

MIA02LA155NTSB Identification: MIA02LA155. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, August 21, 2002 in Chesnee, SC
Probable Cause Approval Date: 4/1/03
Aircraft: Barnes Vans RV-6, registration: N190TB
Injuries: 1 Serious.

According to the pilot at touchdown the airplane hit the ground hard, and bounced high, and touched down a "second time." The pilot added full power to the engine and the airplane "veered to the left." The left wing struck some trees, and the airplane nosed over. The pilot was asked if the airplane had encountered any mechanical discrepancies, and he stated that it did not.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the pilot misjudged the landing flare, resulting in a hard landing, loss of directional control, and damage to the airplane.

LAX02LA256NTSB Identification: LAX02LA256
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, August 21, 2002 in TEHACHAPI, CA
Aircraft: Dodd RV-4, registration: N62VR
Injuries: 1 Minor.

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 August 21, 2002, at 1359 Pacific daylight time, an experimental Dodd RV-4 airplane, N62VR, lost engine power during the initial climb-out from the Tehachapi Municipal Airport (TSP), Tehachapi, California, made a forced landing in a field, and came to rest inverted. The airplane, operated by the owner/builder under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91, sustained substantial damage. The pilot, the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local area test flight. A flight plan had not been filed.

MIA02LA153NTSB Identification: MIA02LA153
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, August 18, 2002 in Tampa, FL
Aircraft: Reviere Vans RV6A, registration: N747ES
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

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 August 18, 2002, about 0936 eastern daylight time, a homebuilt Reviere Vans RV6A, N747ES, operated and registered to an individual, impacted with a concrete wall of a dry dock at the Port of Tampa, Tampa, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed. The local personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. The airplane was destroyed. The two commercial-rated pilots were fatally injured. There were no injuries to anyone on the ground. The flight had originated from the Peter O'Knight Airport, Tampa, Florida, about 5 minutes before the accident.

According to witnesses at the airport, the airplane departed to the south, and then turned back towards the airport. The airplane then flew northbound over the runway, about 50 feet above ground level. The pilot added full power to the engine and the airplane started to climb. The airplane was then seen in a steep climb, turned left, and spiraled nose low until impact.

DEN02LA094NTSB Identification: DEN02LA094. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, August 11, 2002 in Nephi, UT
Probable Cause Approval Date: 4/18/03
Aircraft: Collette RV6, registration: N835YC
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

According to the pilot, while landing on runway 16 and after touch down on the centerline, the airplane veered to the left. He corrected with right rudder control input and brought the airplane back to the centerline. The left wing tip dipped and struck the runway causing the airplane to veer to the left a second time. He added full power, right rudder and aileron and attempted a go-around. The airplane departed the left side of the runway and became airborne for a moment, but the controls felt "sluggish," and the airplane would not climb. He continued over some farm equipment, a road, a fence and he set up for a forced landing in a field. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing spar and both main landing gear attachment points. The reported winds were 330 degrees at 10 knots.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during landing roll, resulting in his attempt to go-around and an inadvertent stall/mush. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing.

CHI02CA202NTSB Identification: CHI02CA202
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, July 19, 2002 in Mattawan, MI
Aircraft: Eckstein RV-6A, registration: N747BS
Injuries: 2 Minor.

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 July 19, 2002, at 1610 eastern daylight time, an Eckstein RV-6A, piloted by a private pilot, was substantially damaged during landing at the Mattawan Airpark Airport (8MI3), Mattawan, Michigan. The airplane had landed on runway 5 (2,000 feet x 100 feet, turf) and was rolling out under heavy braking, when it encountered a rough area of the runway surface. The nose gear subsequentially collapsed and the airplane flipped over. The flight was being conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries.

CHI02LA179NTSB Identification: CHI02LA179
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, June 30, 2002 in Omaha, NE
Aircraft: Waltz RV-8, registration: N877TC
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

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 June 30, 2002, at 1230 central daylight time, an amateur-built Waltz RV-8, N877TC, owned and piloted by an air transport pilot sustained substantial damage during a forced landing to a soybean field near Omaha, Nebraska. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The personal flight was operating under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot and his passenger reported no injuries. The flight originated at Creve Couer Airport, St. Louis, Missouri at 0950 with the intended destination of Millard Airport (MLE), Omaha, Nebraska.

According to the pilot's written statement, on descent into MLE a, "loud banging noise began, emanating from the engine area ... Banging grew louder with other aircraft noting hearing the noise over radio. Approximately 20 sec. after banging started the engine seized." The pilot reported that he picked a field, attempted to turn into the wind, and leveled the wings prior to touchdown. He stated that the landing gear collapsed on touchdown and the aircraft continued a straight slide for approximately 150 feet before it came to a rest.

DEN02LA063NTSB Identification: DEN02LA063. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, June 30, 2002 in Grand Junction, CO
Probable Cause Approval Date: 4/1/03
Aircraft: Rich RV-4, registration: N3344E
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

A witness reported that the experimental homebuilt airplane initiated a sharp pull up with the right wing low after making a pass over the runway. The airplane went inverted with the left wing coming up and over. The airplane then "righted," descended, and impacted into the trees. The forward fuselage, engine, and cockpit were bent downward, broken open and crushed aft. Both wings showed aft crushing along the spans of the leading edge. The fuselage aft of the cockpit showed minor damage. The right horizontal stabilizer and elevator were bent upward and crushed aft. An examination of the airplane's systems revealed no anomalies.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the pilot failing to maintain aircraft control during the pull up maneuver. A factor relating to the accident was the inadvertent stall spin.

FTW02LA185NTSB Identification: FTW02LA185
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, June 19, 2002 in El Paso, TX
Aircraft: QUINN RV-6A, registration: N799RQ
Injuries: 1 Minor.

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 June 19, 2002, at 0919 mountain standard time, a QUINN, RV-6A, experimental homebuilt, single-engine airplane, N799RQ, impacted the terrain during a forced landing following a loss of engine power near the El Paso International Airport, El Paso, Texas. The airplane was owned and operated by the private pilot under Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The private pilot received minor injuries, and the airplane sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local test flight, and a flight plan was not filed. The flight departed El Paso at 0857.

The FAA inspector, who responded to the accident site, found the airplane inverted and short of the runway. The nose landing gear was collapsed. The outboard 6-10 inches of the propeller blades were bent aft with leading edge gouges. Structural damage was found at the fuselage and wings.

The pilot reported that this was the first test flight for the airplane. He had climbed the airplane to 7,000 feet msl, and noted that the oil temperature indicated over 240 degrees. A change in the mixture and power settings did not affect the temperature. The El Paso Tower controller was advised, and the pilot was cleared to land the airplane on runway 26L. Subsequently, the pilot advised the controller that the airplane would not make runway 26L, and the controller cleared the pilot to land the airplane on any runway. When the pilot advanced the throttle, there was no response of engine power.

FTW02LA169NTSB Identification: FTW02LA169. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, May 31, 2002 in Leander, TX
Probable Cause Approval Date: 4/1/03
Aircraft: Golias RV6, registration: N16PG
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

The pilot was practicing short field landings on the turf airstrip. He made his first approach at 80 miles per hour, which terminated in a full stop landing. Not satisfied with the first approach and landing, he decided to attempt another one. The second approach was executed using 40 degrees of flaps, an approach speed of 75 miles per hour, and a steeper descent angle. As the pilot flared, the airspeed degraded, which resulted in a high sink rate. The pilot applied full power; however, the airplane impacted the runway, bounced hard, and veered to the left. The pilot then pulled the power off, and subsequently, the airplane came to rest in an upright position after impacting a berm approximately 30 feet left and parallel to the runway.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing. Contributing factor is the pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing.

FTW02LA151NTSB Identification: FTW02LA151
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, May 15, 2002 in Jonesboro, AR
Aircraft: Nolan RV-4, registration: N437BN
Injuries: 1 Fatal, 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 May 15, 2002, approximately 1738 central daylight time, a Nolan RV-4 homebuilt single-engine airplane impacted the terrain during an uncontrolled descent near Jonesboro, Arkansas. The airplane was owned and operated by a private individual under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The private pilot received fatal injuries, the passenger received serious injuries, and the airplane sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local flight, and a flight plan was not filed. The airplane departed a private airstrip approximately 1730.

The FAA inspector, who responded to the site, found the main wreckage in an open field. The engine was found approximately 25 feet from the main wreckage. One propeller blade was attached to the hub, and one propeller blade was separated from the hub. The cockpit was destroyed by the post-impact ground fire.

LAX02LA160NTSB Identification: LAX02LA160
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, May 12, 2002 in Santa Ynez, CA
Aircraft: Mulligan RV4, registration: N6579B
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

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 May 12, 2002, at 1615 Pacific daylight time, a amateur-built Mulligan RV4 airplane, N6579B, collided with the ground during an attempted go-around from runway 26 at the Santa Ynez, California, airport. The airplane was owned and operated by the pilot under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. The airplane sustained substantial damage in the collision sequence. The private pilot and one passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local area personal flight that originated from the Santa Ynez airport at 1545. No flight plan was filed.

The accident was initially reported by the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, which has a station very close to the Santa Ynez airport. The captain on duty at the time of the event stated that they observed the accident airplane approach runway 26 "flying nearly sideways." The fire fighters at the station then lost sight of the airplane as it descended from their view. The station responded to the reported accident and secured the scene from fire ignition danger. The captain reported that the fuel tanks contained "lots of fuel." At the time of the accident he estimated that the winds were from the west about 10 mph. The captain noted that the "entire airplane" including the wings, engine compartment, firewall, and tail surfaces sustained damage.

The pilot was interviewed by telephone on May 12, 2002. He reported that he had just recently purchased the airplane. He was on final approach to runway 26 when a gust of wind caused the airplane to balloon up. He elected to go around and added full power, then retracted the flaps. During this time, the airplane was drifting off the left side of the runway. The pilot stated that for "undetermined reasons" the airplane settled to the ground. The left wing contacted the ground, followed by the airplane's nose. He estimated that the winds were from 260 degrees at 10 mph, with gusts to 15 to 20 mph. The pilot said he is not aware of any mechanical problems with the airplane before the accident sequence.

ATL02FA074ANTSB Identification: ATL02FA074A
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, April 05, 2002 in Lakeland, FL
Aircraft: Piper PA-16, registration: N5293H
Injuries: 1 Fatal, 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 5, 2002, at 1505 Eastern Standard Time, a Piper PA-16, N5293H and a Betts RV6A, N3333S, registered to a private owners, operating as a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, experienced a mid-air collision while landing to runway 27 right at Lakeland-Linder Regional Airport, Lakeland, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for either airplane. Both airplanes sustained substantial damage. The private pilot in N5293H sustained serious injuries and the private pilot in N3333S was fatally injured. N5293H flight originated from Perry, Florida, at 1330. N3333S flight originated from Cross City, Florida, at an undetermined time.

The air traffic controller working as the local controller in the Lakeland tower stated several airplanes were approaching from the north. The maroon RV6A was in front of the gray PA-16 on the downwind He called the base leg for the RV6A and he was slow to respond. He called the base leg for the PA-16 and the separation looked good between the two airplanes. A landing clearance was not going to be issued until he was assured that both airplanes could land on runway 27 right. He observed the PA-16 over taking the RV6A and instructed the RV6A to side step to runway 27 left, but the pilot did not respond to his instructions. He repeated the instructions but the RV6A pilot did not respond to the instructions. He then informed the PA-16 pilot to climb and he did not respond to the instructions. The nose of the RV6A was observed to pitch up violently and both airplanes collided with the ground.

The narrative is the same as ATL02FA074A.

LAX02LA109NTSB Identification: LAX02LA109
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, March 15, 2002 in Jacumba, CA
Aircraft: Trenti RV-4, registration: N491T
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

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 March 15, 2002, about 1340 hours Pacific standard time, a Trenti RV-4, N491T, was destroyed during landing at Jacumba Airport, Jacumba, California. The experimental airplane was operated by the private pilot builder under 14 CFR Part 91 and no flight plan was filed. The pilot received fatal injuries and the airplane was destroyed. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight that originated from El Cajon, California, at 1323.

Witnesses reported that the pilot was attempting to land on runway 25, at the uncontrolled airstrip. They also reported a gusty wind condition existed at the time.

LAX02LA067NTSB Identification: LAX02LA067. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Thursday, January 10, 2002 in San Jose, CA
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/1/03
Aircraft: Farrand Vans RV6, registration: N164DF
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On the landing rollout the airplane exited the runway, collapsing the left main landing gear, and coming to rest after it had ground looped. The pilot had been practicing full stop landings and his last landing was the accident landing. On the landing rollout the pilot did not slow down enough to exit the runway. Skid marks were observed at the intersection of taxiway Delta and runway 31L where he had attempted to exit. The airplane's landing gear system was inspected with no mechanical anomalies noted.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

Failure of the pilot to sufficiently slow the airplane prior to exiting the runway, which lead to the left main landing gear collapsing and a subsequent ground loop.

FTW02LA050NTSB Identification: FTW02LA050. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, December 09, 2001 in Comfort, TX
Probable Cause Approval Date: 7/2/02
Aircraft: Heard RV-6A, registration: N61AZ
Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor.

Following a bounced initial touchdown, the nose landing gear collapsed during the second touchdown. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. According to the FAA inspector, who responded to the accident site, the nose landing gear strut failed "due to an excessive aft-ward force occurring on final touchdown location."

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the pilot's inadequate recovery from a bounced landing, which resulted in a hard landing and collapse of the nose landing gear.

MIA02LA033NTSB Identification: MIA02LA033. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Monday, November 26, 2001 in Burgaw, NC
Probable Cause Approval Date: 4/25/02
Aircraft: Vernon D. Pitts RV-4, registration: N15VP
Injuries: 1 Minor.

The pilot stated that he reduced power to idle upon entering a left downwind for runway 29, and at that time the engine ceased operating. He stated that he attempted to restart the engine, while switching fuel tanks, and turning the boost pump of, and then on again, since it had been on during the entire flight. He said the engine did not start, and during the forced landing the aircraft collided with some trees at the end of the runway. An FAA inspector stated that he, along with the owner, a licensed FAA mechanic, examined the accident aircraft, and also test ran the engine, and could find no anomalies. The inspector said that the engine operated normally when tested.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

ATL02LA012ANTSB Identification: ATL02LA012A
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, November 10, 2001 in St. Augustine, FL
Aircraft: Extra Flugzeugbau EA300/L, registration: N2XA
Injuries: 3 Uninjured.

On November 10, 2001, an Extra-Flugzeugbau GMBH EA300/L, N2XA, registered to Aero Sport Inc., operating as a 14 CFR Part 91 demonstration flight, and a James D. Smith RV-3, N93HS, registered to a private owner, operating as a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, experienced a mid-air collision during landing flare touchdown at the St. Augustine Airport (SGJ), St. Augustine, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for either airplane. N2XA sustained minor damage and N93HS sustained substantial damage. The airline transport-rated pilot and private pilot-rated passenger on N2XA reported no injuries. The commercial pilot on N93HS reported no injuries. N2XA departed from SGJ about 30 minutes before the accident. N93HS departed from Haller Airpark (7FL4), Green Cove Springs, Florida, about 30 minutes before the accident.

FTW02LA029NTSB Identification: FTW02LA029. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, November 03, 2001 in Denton, TX
Probable Cause Approval Date: 8/26/02
Aircraft: Landoll Vans RV 3-A, registration: N96LS
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

The pilot had spent most of the day waxing his airplane and decided to fly it once around the pattern. The engine start-up, taxi, and engine run-up "indications were normal." While climbing out at 600 feet agl, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted, unsuccessfully, to restart the engine. During a forced landing to a field, the airplane impacted small trees and vegetation. Examination of the engine revealed it was "seized" and contained no oil. No evidence of an oil leak was found. The mechanic, who had been servicing the airplane, reported to the FAA inspector that he had drained the oil from the airplane's engine, left the airplane unattended, and had not replenished the oil prior to the accident flight.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the pilot's failure to perform a preflight inspection, which resulted in a loss of total engine power due to oil starvation. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable training for the forced landing.

DEN01LA155NTSB Identification: DEN01LA155. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, August 31, 2001 in Pagosa Springs, CO
Aircraft: Hammond RV-6A, registration: N199LH
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 August 31, 2001, at approximately 1330 mountain daylight time, a Hammond RV-6A homebuilt airplane, N199LH, was substantially damaged when it departed the runway during takeoff from Stevens Field, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. The non-instrument rated private pilot, the sole occupant on the airplane, was not injured. The pilot was operating the airplane under Title 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local flight that was originating at the time of the accident. No flight plan had been filed.

The pilot said that he was departing on runway 19 (airport elevation 7,700 feet) and had used approximately 7,500 feet of it when the airplane departed the runway. Approximately 250 feet off the runway the airplane impacted an Elk fence. The nose landing gear separated from the airplane, and the engine mount was bent.

The pilot said that he used differential braking for steering. The density altitude was computed to be 10,347 feet.

CHI01FA298NTSB Identification: CHI01FA298. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, August 31, 2001 in Grayslake, IL
Probable Cause Approval Date: 10/24/02
Aircraft: Spears RV-6, registration: N910RS
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

The amateur built, experimental airplane was destroyed by impact forces and subsequent ground fire about 1 mile west of the destination airport. The airplane departed controlled flight prior to ground impact. A witness reported the airplane was flying at about 500 feet above ground level (agl) and was circling towards the airport when the airplane "barreled" left, recovered, and then the nose of the airplane went straight down. Another witness reported seeing the airplane circling before the airplane nose dived into the terrain. The wreckage path was limited to the initial point of impact. The leading edges of the left and right wings were crushed and buckled aft along their outboard wing spans. The post accident inspection of the airplane revealed no preexisting anomalies. The Forensic Toxicology Fatal Accident Report prepared by the Federal Aviation Administration's Civil Aeromedical Institute indicated that 0.019 (ug/ml, ug/g) Tetrahydrocannabinol (Marihuana) and 0.043 (ug/ml, ug/g) Tetrahydrocannabinol Carboxylic Acid (Marihuana) were detected in the pilot's blood.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilot inadvertently stalled the airplane. A factor was the impairment due to marihuana.

LAX01LA264NTSB Identification: LAX01LA264. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, July 27, 2001 in Hawthorne, CA
Probable Cause Approval Date: 2/25/03
Aircraft: Williams RV-6A, registration: N131LH
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

Upon arriving at the destination airport, the pilot elected to land long on runway 25 in order to be closer to the airplane's hangar. According to the pilot, during landing flare a windshear or gust was encountered. Although he attempted to take corrective action, he lost control of his airplane, it impacted the runway hard, and a wing broke. No gusts were reported by the airport facility that indicated the local wind was from 250 degrees at 7 knots. The pilot had arrived at the destination airport after flying over 643 nautical miles on a nonstop flight.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilot's failure to maintain control of his airplane during the landing flare.

ATL01LA088NTSB Identification: ATL01LA088. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, July 22, 2001 in Collington, NC
Probable Cause Approval Date: 9/9/02
Aircraft: W. E. Simmons Max Air DRIFTER ARV 582, registration: N102WS
Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor.

The airplane was on initial climb after a water takeoff when it experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot established a glide straight ahead. The pilot then turned the airplane hard to the left to avoid hitting a bridge. The pilot stated there was not enough altitude or airspeed to complete the turn and landing flare. The airplane struck the water while maneuvering for the forced landing. The examination of the recovered airplane disclosed that both wings had separated from the airframe. Water submersion and impact damage to the engine assembly prevented a functional examination. However, the subsequent examination of the engine revealed that the engine had seized and the internal components would not rotate. The pilot further reported that the engine had been overhauled once, but he could not recall the exact time of the overhaul, or total engine time.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The internal seizing of the engine assembly that resulted in a total loss of engine power during climb out.

FTW01LA164NTSB Identification: FTW01LA164. The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Thursday, July 12, 2001 in Spring, TX
Probable Cause Approval Date: 11/28/01
Aircraft: Young RV-6, registration: N6GY
Injuries: 1 Minor.

This was the first flight of the homebuilt airplane following its certification on the day prior to the accident. While returning from the airplane's maiden flight, about 10 nautical miles from the airport, approximately 1,200 feet msl, the pilot turned the electric fuel pump on for landing, and the engine began to run "rough." He turned the fuel pump off and the engine "smoothed out." With the fuel pump on, the pilot could lean the mixture and get the engine to "smooth out." After trying several combinations of fuel pump and mixture settings, the pilot thought the engine was running smooth and planned for a tight pattern, high speed approach, with the mixture full rich and the fuel pump off. While on base leg, at approximately 600 feet agl, the aircraft appeared to be settling faster than anticipated. The pilot attempted to add power, but the engine was "dead and just wind milling." He went through a "quick restart" and at approximately 400 feet, initiated a forced landing to a nearby trailer park and declared an emergency. The airplane touched down between two rows of trailers, and during the landing roll the right wing impacted a tree. The airplane came to rest upright with the left wing against a house trailer. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the loss of engine power for undetermined reasons during the landing approach. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

ATL01LA077NTSB Identification: ATL01LA077. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, July 07, 2001 in Sebring, FL
Probable Cause Approval Date: 8/26/02
Aircraft: Kenneth West ARV 582, registration: N3395H
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

A experimental ARV 582 airplane impacted the ground on take off in Sebring, Florida. According to witnesses, after departing runway 18, the experimental airplane banked to the right and collided with the ground, in nose low attitude. No evidence of mechanical malfunction or any flight control problems were discovered during the examination of the airplane.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilot's failure to maintain flying speed, followed by a subsequent inadvertent stall spin.

LAX01LA239NTSB Identification: LAX01LA239
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, July 07, 2001 in Jackpot, NV
Aircraft: Johansen/Thiessen RV-6A, registration: N246RV
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

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 July 7, 2001, at 1412 hours Pacific daylight time, a Johansen/Thiessen RV-6A, N246RV, collided with the ground while maneuvering near Jackpot, Nevada. The airplane was destroyed, and the certificated private pilot and his single passenger sustained fatal injuries. A private owner was operating the airplane under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91 at the time of the accident. The personal cross-country flight departed Jackpot earlier that day and was presumed to be destined for Wells, Nevada. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan had been filed.

FTW01LA159NTSB Identification: FTW01LA159. The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, July 04, 2001 in Mineral Wells, TX
Probable Cause Approval Date: 10/9/01
Aircraft: GLOVER RV-8, registration: N50FG
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

During the takeoff roll, the pilot was unable to move the control stick back to the neutral "takeoff" position. After realizing the control was jammed forward, the pilot closed the throttle and attempted to maintain directional control with the brakes. The pilot was not able to free the elevator control stick. The pilot felt that he did not have sufficient runway to stop the airplane on the departure runway; therefore, he turned the airplane to the left onto another runway. Approximately 2/3 of the way through the turn, the "west wind lifted the left wing and the right wing struck the ground." The airplane rotated back to the right coming to rest on the approach end of the runway. Fire was immediately noticed, the pilot opened the canopy, and the airplane was evacuated. The airplane was consumed by fire. The pilot stated that the "control stick grip lodged behind [the] instrument panel on takeoff." The pilot recommended a "more secure attachment of [the] control stick grip and redesigned travel of [the] control stick so that [the] stick will not travel under instrument panel." The weather observation facility reported the wind from 260 degrees at 10 knots gusting to 15 knots.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the jammed elevator control stick on takeoff roll. A contributory factor was the crosswind.

FTW01LA152NTSB Identification: FTW01LA152. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Monday, June 25, 2001 in Hammond, LA
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/21/02
Aircraft: Mottier RV-6, registration: N149
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

The pilot executed a forced landing to a pasture, located approximately 1/4 mile north of the runway, due to a loss of engine power. The pilot walked back to the airport office, inquired who the owner of the field was, and stated he "thought he had a fuel problem." Approximately 45 minutes later, a witness reported seeing the pilot pushing the airplane back to the south part of the pasture. The pilot proceeded to start the engine, and the airplane took off from the pasture. Shortly after takeoff, the airplane turned to the left and the engine lost power again. The airplane "wobbled", rolled inverted, and impacted trees and the ground. Examination of the accident site revealed that the cockpit, cabin area, and engine were consumed by fire. The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control following a loss of engine power. A factor was the loss of engine power during takeoff initial climb for undetermined reasons.

CHI01LA172NTSB Identification: CHI01LA172. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, June 16, 2001 in Poseyville, IN
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/21/02
Aircraft: Shanklin RV-6A, registration: N76MS
Injuries: 1 Serious.

The experimental homebuilt airplane, piloted by a student pilot, was substantially damaged during a hard landing when the airplane stalled approximately 6 feet agl and nosed over.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the premature flare by the pilot.

CHI01LA142NTSB Identification: CHI01LA142. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, May 16, 2001 in Muscatine, IA
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/28/02
Aircraft: Baldwin RV-6, registration: N4348Q
Injuries: 2 Minor.

The airplane nosed over during a forced landing following a loss of engine power on initial climb after takeoff. The pilot reported that, "At approx. 400' AGL the RPM started to fall off. I checked carb heat, mixture. Both set properly. Pumped throttle since it seemed like the problem could be fuel flow. (Tanks were full, fuel valve turned to right tank, fuel pump on.) After 10-15 seconds from begining of problem the engine stopped." The pilot landed the aircraft in a field containing a tree line, an irrigation system and a drainage ditch. The pilot said, "The soil was soft and sandy. On touchdown the gear dug in and the plane flipped over to its back." An examination of the aircraft failed to reveal any anomalies.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The engine failure for undetermined reasons. Factors were the low altitude, the trees, the presence of the irrigation system, the ditch and the soft ground.

LAX01LA141NTSB Identification: LAX01LA141
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, April 28, 2001 in BAKER, CA
Aircraft: MOTLEY VANS RV-6A, registration: N51DA
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

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 28, 2001, about 1405 hours Pacific daylight time, a Motley Vans RV-6A, N51DA, was destroyed when it collided with terrain about 14 miles west of Baker, California. The private pilot/owner was operating the airplane under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91. The pilot sustained fatal injuries. The personal cross-country flight departed Chino, California, at an unknown time. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed. The primary wreckage was at 35 degrees 11.84 minutes north latitude and 116 degrees 04.68 minutes west longitude.

A sheriff's deputy interviewed the pilot's son. The pilot delayed his departure from Chino due to weather. He was to over fly the son at a retreat so the son would know to pick him up at Baker. The son said that as the airplane passed over, it rolled to the left, and then sharply to the right before descending to the ground.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) accident coordinator inspected the wreckage at the accident scene. He observed a ground scar that was about 2 feet long. The wreckage covered an area about 50 yards in diameter. The wreckage site contained all of the control surfaces. The leading edges of both wings were crushed aft, and both of the propeller blades exhibited S-bends.

LAX01LA110NTSB Identification: LAX01LA110. The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Tuesday, March 06, 2001 in Inyokern, CA
Probable Cause Approval Date: 4/18/03
Aircraft: Jones RV-6A, registration: N46KA
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

The amateur-built, airplane impacted mountainous terrain in dark night conditions after experiencing a loss of engine power while in cruise flight at 13,000 feet. The airline transport pilot obtained a weather briefing prior to departing on a visual flight rules (VFR) flight. During the briefing, the pilot was advised that VFR flight was not recommended and that flight precautions existed for icing conditions above 7,000 feet, the potential for mountain obscurement, cloud layers predominant through the route of flight and the chance of widespread rain. The pilot reported experiencing weather during his flight and the air traffic controller asked him if they wanted to continue in instrument flight conditions (IMC). The pilot stated he would like to continue in IMC and indicated if he encountered icing conditions he would "ask for a 180" and divert to another airport. Later during the flight, the pilot told the air traffic controller he was encountering snow. He called the controller again and reported he was experiencing a rough running engine and that he wanted to divert to a nearby airport and declare an emergency. The controller then issued radar vectors to the airport. The pilot continued to ask for and received terrain information as he descended past 5,000 feet. Radar data and communications were then lost. The airplane was found on the side of a mountain ridge at 4,700 feet.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

the in-flight collision with mountainous terrain during a forced landing following a loss of engine power resulting from the pilot's inadequate weather evaluation, continued flight into icing weather conditions, his delay in carburetor heat use, and his delay in diverting to an alternate airport.

ATL01LA035NTSB Identification: ATL01LA035. The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, February 11, 2001 in IMMOKALEE, FL
Probable Cause Approval Date: 7/30/01
Aircraft: MICHAEL E. NOURSE RV-6A, registration: N6279E
Injuries: 2 Minor.

According to the pilot, upon landing, the nose gear failed and buckled under the airframe. The nose then contacted the runway, the airplane then slid into the grass, and flipped over. According to the passenger, after a "very hard landing" the nose gear collapsed, and the airplane skidded off the left side of runway. The passenger also reported that the airplane began to cartwheel after it skidded into the grass. The weather conditions at the time of accident: wind 140 degrees at 10 knots with gust up to 24 knots. The wreckage examination failed to disclose a mechanical malfunction or component failure.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilot's improper flare, and his evaluation of the gusty wind conditions resulted in the collision with the terrain.

LAX01LA088NTSB Identification: LAX01LA088. The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, February 04, 2001 in Georgetown, CA
Probable Cause Approval Date: 11/6/01
Aircraft: Fish RV6, registration: N1198N
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

An off-airport emergency landing followed loss of engine power over mountainous terrain. The pilot reported that the engine of the amateur built aircraft lost power while in cruise flight, and, although there was oil pressure, eventually seized before the landing. During the landing in a forest clear cut area, the landing gear impacted a tree trunk and the aircraft nosed over. Post accident disassembly of the engine revealed that the crankshaft separated at the crankshaft cheek between the number 3 and 4 throws. The owner reported he assembled the (experimental) engine himself using Lycoming parts, and that the engine had accumulated 631 flight hours since assembly. The owner was not a certificated powerplant mechanic.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The total loss of engine power due to fracture and separation of the engine crankshaft.

DEN01LA034 NTSB Identification: DEN01LA034 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, December 24, 2000 in SPRINGFIELD, CO
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/8/01
Aircraft: BARACKMAN VANS RV-6, registration: N3891P
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

As the airplane made a full flap approach to the runway, the pilot 'felt a bump,' the right flap retracted, and the airplane rolled abruptly to the right. The pilot added full power and left aileron but it had no effect. The airplane drifted off the right side of the runway, dragging the wing tip, then cartwheeled and nosed into the ground. Postaccident inspection revealed the right hand flap rod (p/n F-659) had failed, causing a split flap condition. The failed actuator rod was made of aluminum tubing threaded at each end. The pilot said, 'Wall thickness at the threaded ends is thin,' and the part should be made of steel. Vans Aircraft, Inc., said 'the failure was associated with poor workmanship rather than materials defect or structural design...the original builder had not enlarged the hole required in the fuselage large enough to prevent the rod from 'scraping' during flap extension. The continued scraping had eventually worn away the entire side of the rod and resulted in total failure.'

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

Total failure of the right hand flap control rod due to construction procedures/directives not being followed by the builder.

CHI01LA008 NTSB Identification: CHI01LA008 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, October 11, 2000 in SAINT PAUL, MN
Probable Cause Approval Date: 10/23/01
Aircraft: Walton RV-6, registration: N796W
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

The airplane sustained substantial damage on impact with terrain during a landing. The pilot was uninjured. The pilot stated, "... Went out to do a few landings and after rounding out and 3 ft. above runway, my right rudder pedal failed causing my airplane to yaw left, strike left wingtip and cartwheel approx. 3 times before coming to rest on its gear." An on-scene examination revealed the right rudder pedal was separated from its cross tube. The airplane's condition inspection was performed on January 21, 2000. No entries indicating the compliance with SB 99-6-1 were found. A kit manufacturer's representative stated, "I researched the method by which we distribute service bulletins and, with each bulletin, we do a direct mailing to each customer, publish the SB in the newsletter and place it on our web site. If we are notified of change of ownership, we mail to the new owner. ... The SB would have gone to [the builder]." The builder stated, "I did not receive such bulletin. Had I, I certainly would have forwarded it to [the current owner]."

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The rudder tube failure, and aircraft control not possible during the flare by the pilot. A factor was the service bulletin not being complied with by the mechanic during the condition inspection.

MIA00LA259 NTSB Identification: MIA00LA259 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, September 03, 2000 in BAYOU LA BATRE, AL
Probable Cause Approval Date: 3/2/01
Aircraft: Eugene L. Capozzi VAN RV-6A, registration: N199EC
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

The pilot stated that while on final approach to runway 36, he extended full wing flaps and maintained about 80 mph until clear of the trees at the end of the runway. He then reduced engine power and descended toward the runway. At about 30 feet above the runway, the left wing dropped down between 20-30 degrees, and he applied right aileron control and engine power in an attempt to correct the left roll. The engine did not seem to respond and the aircraft remained in the left roll. The aircraft descended nose down, approximately 15-20 degrees left wing down, and collided with the runway. A witness told the pilot he heard the engine increase in power prior to ground impact. Propeller strike marks on the runway showed that the distance between the first and second marks was 10 inches. Analysis shows that at 2,700 rpm, full engine power, the aircraft would be at about 51 mph at ground impact. The pilot stated the aircraft stalls at 52 mph with full flaps extended.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilots failure to maintain airspeed during final approach result in the aircraft stalling and descending uncontrolled until ground impact.

LAX00LA321 NTSB Identification: LAX00LA321 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, August 26, 2000 in EL MONTE, CA
Probable Cause Approval Date: 7/17/01
Aircraft: Fogerson Richard D RV-6A, registration: N888LH
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

The aircraft collided with ground obstructions during a forced landing following an loss of engine power. The flight was routine until on 2.5-mile final approach for landing when the pilot reduced engine power and raised the nose of the aircraft to slow to flap extension speed. He completed the landing checklist at the same time by setting the mixture control to the rich position, turning the fuel boost pump on, and extending the flaps. When he moved the throttle forward to add power to stabilize the descent there was no response from the engine. He checked the mixture position, throttle position, fuel selector, and engaged the starter and lowered the nose of the aircraft; all to no avail. He identified an off-airport landing location, transmitted 'mayday' to the tower, maintained flying airspeed, and landed. During the landing rollout, the airplane collided with a tree. Postaccident examination did not reveal why the engine lost power.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

CHI00LA246 NTSB Identification: CHI00LA246 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, August 06, 2000 in BISMARCK, ND
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/18/01
Aircraft: Summers RV4, registration: N131DS
Injuries: 1 Minor.

The airplane nosed over during a forced landing. The pilot reported that a loss of engine power occurred after he was cleared to land. He reported he was too far from the runway, so he selected a gravel road on which to make the forced landing. The gravel road dead-ended at an intersection with a paved road. The airplane traveled off the end of the gravel road, crossed the paved road, and contacted a drainage ditch where it nosed over. The pilot reported that the loss of engine power was a result of fuel exhaustion and the accident could have been prevented had he landed earlier for fuel.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

Inadequate preflight planning/preparation by the pilot, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. A factor associated with the accident was the drainage ditch that the airplane contacted.

LAX00LA275 NTSB Identification: LAX00LA275 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, July 21, 2000 in WINNEMUCCA, NV
Probable Cause Approval Date: 9/26/01
Aircraft: Steel RANS RV-6, registration: N64ME
Injuries: 1 Minor.

After losing engine power, the amateur-built airplane encountered soft soil and nosed over after overrunning the runway during a forced landing at the airport. The flight left the San Francisco Bay area earlier in the day and was en route ultimately to Oshkosh, Wisconsin. In cruise the pilot saw that the engine oil temperature was nearing the upper limit and landed at the airport for it to cool off. After about an hour on the ground, the pilot performed a detailed preflight inspection and run-up, with no abnormalities detected. The pilot then departed for the next en route stop. About 10 minutes after departure, the engine oil temperature climbed once more to the red line limit and the pilot decided to turn around. Shortly thereafter, the oil temperature exceeded the red line limit and the engine began to lose power. The pilot reduced the throttle and set up for a landing on a highway and the engine power partially returned. The pilot then attempted to continue to the airport; however, the engine lost power short of the facility. The pilot said she was able to reach the runway, but was too low to make any traffic pattern maneuvers, and too high to land normally. The airplane touched down slightly fast near the halfway point on the runway and was unable to stop prior to overrunning the pavement end. The airplane encountered soft, sandy soil and nosed over. Disassembly of the engine found that the vernatherm was not installed, allowing the oil supply to bypass the oil cooler. The records disclosed that the engine was built-up about 90 hours prior to the accident by a firm which specializes in performance improvement rebuilds for the experimental aircraft market. The engine is a basic Lycoming IO-360 with several modifications for power improvement.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

A loss of power due to overheating resulting from the failure of the engine build-up facility to install a vernatherm.

SEA00LA104 NTSB Identification: SEA00LA104 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, June 14, 2000 in HAMMETT, ID
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/9/01
Aircraft: LUNN (Vans) RV-6A, registration: N322KE
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

The owner/pilot and pilot rated passenger departed to the west from a personal airstrip in the RV-6A homebuilt aircraft. The characteristic departure, according to local residents, was for the pilot to execute 180 degree turn, and return back over the departing airstrip before proceeding on course. The aircraft impacted the ground heading north slightly northwest of the airstrip. The crush angle on the aircraft's wings was noted to be about 20 degrees nose down and relatively wings level. No pre-impact engine or control malfunction was evident, nor was there any evidence of any pilot pre-impact impairment. The aircraft's airspeed indicator read 40-50 mph at the crash site. The stall speed for the 180 horsepower RV-6A, according to the manufacturer's specifications, was 50 mph.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilot's entering an inadvertent stall condition, and the lack of adequate altitude in which to successfully recover before ground impact.

MIA00LA153 NTSB Identification: MIA00LA153 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, May 14, 2000 in APEX, NC
Aircraft: Mclarty VANS RV-4, registration: N45DR
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

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 May 14, 2000, at about 1315 eastern daylight time, a Mclarty Vans RV-4, N45DR, registered to a private owner, operating as a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, crashed after takeoff from a private airport. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The commercial pilot and one passenger were transported to a local hospital, and died during treatment. The flight was originating from Apex, North Carolina, at the time of the accident.

The brother of the deceased pilot stated his brother conducted and engine run-up and magneto check. The engine sounded a little rough but smoothed out. The airplane was observed on the takeoff roll, became airborne and started a shallow left turn over the trees. He heard a sound like the engine back fired, observed black smoke, and watched the airplane until it disappeared from view behind the trees. He ran to the crash site and saw the airplane adjacent to road. The airplane had collided with trees and was located on the opposite side of a ditch.

SEA00LA084 NTSB Identification: SEA00LA084 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, May 07, 2000 in INDEPENDENCE, OR
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/9/01
Aircraft: Oveross VANS RV-8, registration: N998TT
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

Approximately 100 feet above ground level the engine of the pilot/builder assembled RV-8 kit-plane began to run rough. The pilot made a left 90 degree turn to return to land during which all power was lost. He then turned back right and landed hard, collapsing the landing gear. Fueling records revealed approximately 10 gallons of fuel in the right tank per the pilot's estimate. Post-crash examination revealed that the fuel pick-up tube within the right tank had become mis-positioned (twisted) approximately 180 degrees, placing the tube pick-up end at the mid-level of the 21 gallon tank, and resulting in fuel starvation. The pilot had done maintenance on the right tank several weeks earlier including tightening a hex nut which retained the 90-degree elbow fitting holding the pick-up tube in place. Tightening of the hex nut without an anti-rotation bracket could rotate the pick-up tube into a mis-position. The aircraft design and construction predated the dissemination of design plans containing the anti-rotation bracket, and the manufacturer had not issued any notice of the bracket specifications to the pilot/builder. The pilot/builder, unaware of the specifications, had not installed the bracket in the right fuel tank.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The rotation of the right fuel tank elbow fitting within the tank during previous maintenance. The improper alignment resulted in the fuel pick-up tube being mis-positioned and a subsequent starvation of fuel to the engine. Contributing factors were the non-installation of an anti-rotation bracket to secure the elbow fitting, the kit manufacturer's failure to issue a notice of the bracket design to previous aircraft owners, and the pilot's not establishing/maintaining a proper rate of descent resulting in a hard landing.

FTW00LA138 NTSB Identification: FTW00LA138 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, May 06, 2000 in KANAB, UT
Probable Cause Approval Date: 3/2/01
Aircraft: NOTEMAN RV6-A, registration: N456TP
Injuries: 1 Minor, 1 Uninjured.

The 683-hour pilot reported that while in cruise flight at 8,000 feet msl (2,000 feet agl), the engine started to run rough after he heard a 'pop' sound come from the engine compartment. The airplane was not able to maintain altitude and the pilot elected to perform an emergency landing to an estimated 1,800-foot stretch of a road. During the approach to the road, the pilot observed a vehicle entering the road in the opposite direction, and the pilot elected to abandon the approach and land on an 800-foot long meadow adjacent to the road. The pilot added that the airplane landed hard, the nose wheel sank into the soft ground, and the airplane nosed over to the inverted position. Examination of the engine revealed a broken exhaust valve.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The partial loss of engine power as result of the failure of an exhaust valve. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

DEN00LA081 NTSB Identification: DEN00LA081 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, April 28, 2000 in LOS ALAMOS, NM
Probable Cause Approval Date: 5/8/01
Aircraft: HUTCHINS RV4, registration: N724CF
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

During approach for landing at the completion of a cross-country flight, the pilot noted the UNICOM reported the wind was calm but the windsock stuck straight out. During the landing attempt, the aircraft bounced and as it departed the side of the runway into dirt the pilot attempted to abort the landing. After a climb was initiated, a steep bank was made to avoid striking the airport perimeter fence. The aircraft then settled, in a wings level attitude, onto the ground causing the main landing gear to collapse and substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot reported the wind as variable at 10 knots with no gusts. Density altitude at the time was approximately 9,600 feet.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft after initiating a go-around following a hard bounced landing. Factors were variable shifting winds and a high-density altitude.

LAX00LA155 NTSB Identification: LAX00LA155 . The docket is stored on NTSB microfiche number DMS.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, April 15, 2000 in WILLOWS, CA
Aircraft: Smith RV-4, registration: N63SM
Injuries: 2 Minor.

On April 15, 2000, at 1119 hours Pacific daylight time, an amateur-built Smith RV-4, N63SM, made an off-airport forced landing after experiencing an elevator control problem in cruise flight near Willows, California. The airplane, owned and operated by the commercial pilot, under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91, sustained substantial damage. The pilot and passenger suffered minor injuries. The personal flight originated from Lincoln, California, about 1045, and was en route to Willows. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed.

MIA00LA130 NTSB Identification: MIA00LA130 . The docket is stored in the (offline) NTSB Imaging System.
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Wednesday, April 12, 2000 in NATCHEZ, MS
Probable Cause Approval Date: 12/4/00
Aircraft: SCOTT VANS RV-4, registration: N123SC
Injuries: 1 Minor.

The pilot told investigators that he and his friend were originally en route to Lakeland, Florida, when his airplane developed engine problems. He landed and over the next 3 days the engine was repaired. When his friend returned they both departed for Texas. They did not filed a flight plan, nor was a weather briefing obtained. About 105 nautical miles into the flight, they encountered fog and low ceilings. They performed a 180 degree turn and reversed directions. The pilot of N123SC, stated he lost control of the aircraft as he began his turn behind the lead aircraft. He tried to regain control of the airplane, but all control inputs failed to control the aircraft. The next thing he saw, was the trees and ground coming up towards him. Examination of the wreckage revealed, the control stick was actuated fore and aft, left and right with positive input to all control surfaces that were still intact on the aircraft. It was the opinion of the FAA inspector, '...that weather, fog, low ceilings, lack of instrumentation and the pilot flying in marginally