Primary finding
Probable cause
A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The airplane was filled with fuel before takeoff. Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of 100 to 150 ft above ground level (agl) the airplane’s engine began to lose power and then lost total power. The pilot reported he leveled the wings; however, the airplane entered an aerodynamic stall before it descended and impacted an open field. The engine started and ran to normal operating power during a postaccident engine test run. Although the engine continued to operate although the ignition switch was moved to the “off” position, the issue would not have led to a loss of power. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Source record
Factual narrative
On December 10, 2024, about 1130 central standard time, a Vans RV-8, N42CS, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Smithville, Texas. The pilot was seriously injured. The airplane was operated under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. The pilot reported that the accident flight was the second flight of the day. He had flown from San Marcos Airport (KHYI), San Marcos, Texas, to Smithville Crawford Municipal Airport (84R), Smithville, Texas, earlier that morning. He had both fuel tanks topped off before departing 84R. After takeoff, the engine began to cut out and lose engine power. When the airplane reached about 100 to 150 ft agl, the engine lost total power. The airplane was in a left bank, so the pilot rolled the wings level, but the airplane entered an aerodynamic stall before it descended and impacted terrain about 1,000 ft north of the departure end of the runway. The airplane was recovered to a salvage facility for further examination. On March 7, 2025, an engine run was conducted, and the engine started and ran without any problems noted. The engine was able to produce rated power. The engine continued to run with the ignition switch in the “off” position. The switch connection’s ground intermittently and appeared to be in a condition which would have allowed continued operation of the magnetos. Disassembly of the switch did not find any anomalies. The loss of engine power could not be replicated.