Primary finding
Probable cause
Water contamination in the fuel, and inadequate preflight inspection.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot said that he performed a preflight which included draining the fuel sumps, and run up before takeoff. During climb out at about 3400 feet, the engine lost power. The pilot completed the emergency checklist which included attempting to restart the engine, and switching fuel tanks, but all were unsuccessful. The pilot reversed direction and returned to the departure airport; however, the airplane touched down 100 feet short of the runway and collided with a hill. An inspection by the FAA revealed water in the right fuel tank.
Source record
Factual narrative
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