Probable cause
Water contamination within the fuel regulator air-reference system, which resulted in improper fuel metering and a loss of engine power during initial climb.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the experimental amateur-built airplane experienced a partial and then total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot performed a forced landing onto a road, where the airplane collided with a signpost and sustained substantial damage.
Postaccident examination revealed no mechanical anomalies with the engine or airframe fuel delivery system that would have precluded normal operation. However, water was found within the throttle body injector air-reference line and regulator diaphragm. This contamination likely led to inadequate fuel regulation, resulting in the power fluctuations observed by the pilot and eventual power loss. The investigation could not determine how water entered the system.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA074 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 16, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Auburn, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Auburn Municipal Airport (S50)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built SONEX
- N-number
- N920MB
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2013
- 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.