Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the presence of an unidentified contaminant in the fuel system which clogged the fuel flow sensor. Contributing to the accident was the manufacturer’s installation of the fuel flow sensor upstream of the fuel filter and the misleading fuel schematic published by the airplane kit manufacturer.
NTSB analysis
The airplane was on departure when the engine started sputtering and lost power. The pilot turned toward the runway and landed beside the runway in the dirt, substantially damaging the airplane. Postaccident examination revealed that the fuel flow sensor, which was located upstream of the fuel flow filter, was clogged with an unidentified substance and there was particulate matter in the fuel lines. The source of the substances could not be determined. The experimental airplane manufacturer installed the fuel flow sensor upstream of the fuel flow filter as depicted on a fuel flow schematic, provided for information only, by the airplane airframe kit manufacturer. The installation instructions for the fuel flow sensor indicated the fuel flow sensor should be installed downstream of a fuel filter.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA341 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 5, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Spicewood, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Spicewood Airport (88R)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built PITTS S-12
- N-number
- N922TP
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.