Flight Design Gmbh CTSW HXB N302CT accident near Sealy, Texas

Probable cause

Failure of maintenance personnel to comply with the engine manufacturer’s mandatory service bulletin, which resulted in failure of the mechanical fuel pump diaphragm and a subsequent total loss of engine power.

NTSB analysis

During the initial climb on an instructional flight, the light sport airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The flight instructor initiated a 180-degree turn back toward the airport; however, the airplane impacted trees to the right of the runway. Postaccident examination revealed that the mechanical fuel pump diaphragm had deteriorated and was leaking fuel. A serviceable fuel pump was installed, and the engine operated normally and produced full power during a subsequent test run.

The fuel pump was subject to a mandatory service bulletin (SB) issued by the manufacturer about 3 years before the accident. The SB required replacement of the fuel pump at the next scheduled maintenance due to instances of mechanical failure. Although the accident airplane had received three annual inspections between the issuance of the SB and the accident flight, the fuel pump was not replaced at any of these inspections.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN16LA221 for the full record.