Amateur-built RV-6 N111XF accident near Moriarty, New Mexico

Probable cause

A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane was operating normally throughout the preflight and initial takeoff. Shortly after becoming airborne, and while still over the runway, the engine began to “stutter” and lose power. The pilot turned on the electric fuel pump, but the engine did not respond. During the forced landing that followed, the airplane exited the runway and the landing gear collapsed, substantially damaging the fuselage.

The pilot stated that 6 to 12 months before the accident he had experienced a similar instance of an engine failure during takeoff, but he was able to land during that instance. He attributed that loss of power to a failed fuel pump. He stated that he replaced the failed fuel pump with a used fuel pump that was on an engine that he rebuilt 70 yrs ago.

Attempts to contact the pilot to access the airplane and engine for an examination were unsuccessful. Although the fuel pump was reportedly 70 yrs old, investigators could not determine if it failed. Therefore, the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA063 for the full record.