Amateur-built CH 601 HD N9066F accident near Goldendale, Washington

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.

NTSB analysis

The day before the accident, the pilot identified contaminated fuel. He de-fueled the airplane, refueled it with 100 low-lead aviation fuel, and then extensively ground run the engine with no issues noted. The day of the accident, he performed another ground run, shut down the engine and checked for leaks, and then prepared for the accident flight. About 75 ft above ground level during the initial climb, the engine lost total power. The pilot performed a forced landing to rocky, uneven terrain, during which the left wing sustained substantial damage.

Postaccident examination of the airplane and engine and did not find any mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined based on the available information.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR17LA194 for the full record.