Amateur-built VANS RV-8 N772KS accident near Umatilla, Florida

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he had fully fueled the experimental amateur-built airplane before departure and had about 40 gallons of fuel on board. He then reported, and witness video confirmed, that shortly after departure, about 150 ft above ground level, the engine began to “sputter and cough” before sustaining a total loss of power. The pilot maintained flying airspeed, switched fuel tanks, and checked that the fuel boost pump was on. He noticed that there was no runway remaining and aimed for a large yard that was across a lake off the departure end of the runway. He was unable to glide to the yard and impacted the lake, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.

Postaccident examination of the airplane found that the fuel line from the electric fuel boost pump to the fuel sump was fractured and detached from the pump, though given the damage to the pump mounting bracket and fuselage structure surrounding it, it is likely that the fuel line separation was the result of impact forces. No other evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane or engine were found that would have precluded normal operation and a reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA23LA365 for the full record.