Amateur-built JP FLYER N1202Y accident near Wasilla, Alaska

Probable cause

The installation of an improperly sized fuel line that did not allow for adequate fuel flow to the engine, resulting in a partial loss of engine power and collision with trees.

NTSB analysis

The pilot departed for his first flight in an experimental home-built airplane. Witnesses stated that the engine did not sound like it was producing full power during the takeoff. After the airplane was airborne, one witness saw the airplane’s nose come down and the airplane made a slight left bank to line up with a road before the witness lost sight of the airplane. The airplane impacted a road, that was surrounded by trees, in a near-vertical, nose-down attitude and a postimpact fire began. There was tree debris in the area immediately surrounding the wreckage, there were also branches and debris slightly further from the airplane.

Postaccident examination revealed that the fuel supply hose from the carburetor to the gascolator was not the correct size. The braided steel hose was too small and was observed to have a kink that likely restricted fuel flow. Postaccident examination of the wreckage found no evidence of any other preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine, other than the fuel line, that would have precluded normal operation. Because of the fuel line’s size and improper installation, the carburetor was likely not able to supply enough fuel to the engine at full power during the takeoff.

Based on the tree debris surrounding the accident site, it is likely that while maneuvering to land on the road, the airplane impacted trees resulting in a loss of control and impact with the road.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24FA092 for the full record.