Amateur-built CHALLENGER N990SS accident near Jonesboro, Louisiana

Probable cause

Loss of engine power due to the use of improper fuel in the airplane by the non-certificated pilot.

NTSB analysis

The non-certificated pilot reported that there was a “loud pop” and immediate loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. He was unable to return to the airstrip and executed a forced landing to a wooded area. Both wings and the fuselage sustained substantial damage.

The airplane was fueled before the flight; however, the fuel had been stored in the pilot’s hangar and was between 10 and 12 months old. A postrecovery engine examination did not identify any anomalies associated with the engine assembly. Fuel remaining in the carburetor bowls exhibited a dark yellow color consistent with stale automotive gasoline.

The pilot’s lack of training and experience with respect to airplane operations likely contributed to his decision to use old, automotive fuel in the airplane. It is likely that the engine lost power due to the old fuel in the fuel system.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20LA322 for the full record.