Clovis, NM, USA
N835RA
APPEL RDA 04
The airplane impacted terrain while attempting to return to the runway following a loss of engine power in the takeoff initial climb. The pilot/owner reported that he had sumped the fuel system prior to the flight. After the accident, the pilot sumped the fuel tanks and found water. The pilot found that the placement of the fuel drain did not facilitate the removal of water from the wing tanks.
This report is based on information received by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Additional details may be found in the NTSB's public docket for this case. For further information, please contact the NTSB Office of Public Inquiries. The airplane impacted terrain while attempting to return to the runway following a loss of engine power at Clovis Municipal Airport, Clovis, New Mexico. The pilot/owner reported that he had sumped the fuel system prior to the flight. After the accident, the pilot sumped the fuel tanks and found water. The pilot found that the placement of the fuel drain did not facilitate the removal of water from the wing tanks.
a loss of engine power due to water contamination of the fuel system. The inadequate placement of the fuel system drain by the builder was a factor.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
Aviation Accidents App
In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports
