Probable cause
Loss of engine power due to fuel contamination, and the pilot’s inadequate preflight of the fuel system.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, shortly after takeoff the engine lost power. He performed a forced landing into a wooded area and the airplane came to rest inverted. Examination of the fuel system found water in the fuel line between the engine driven fuel pump, the carburetor, and the fuel strainer. With the exception of the water in the fuel, no additional evidence of any other preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction was found. Had the pilot checked the fuel before flight, he likely would have noted the presence of water and should have drained it.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10LA374 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 24, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Enochville, North Carolina
- Nearest airport
- Farrell James Airfield (PVT)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built ZODIAC 601XL
- N-number
- N601CX
- 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.