Primary finding
Probable cause
failure to replace a dirty air filter.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The airplane's engine lost power on takeoff. An annual inspection had been performed 3 operating hours before the accident. The air filter was heavily loaded with trapped dirt, and had the appearance of a long time in service. Its manufacturer recommends replacement at 100 operating hours or annually, whichever occurs first.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 25, 1993, about 1820 eastern standard time, a Cessna 152 airplane, N89133, owned and piloted by Christopher L. Cliburn experienced loss of engine power during takeoff climb and landed beyond the pilot's sod runway at Brownsburg, Indiana. The private pilot reported no injury; a single passenger incurred minor injury. The airplane was substantially damaged. Visual meteorological conditions existed in the vicinity. The personal flight originated without a flight plan and operated under 14 CFR 91. Annual inspection of the engine and airframe was performed about three operating hours before the accident. No mechanical failure or malfunction was observed during post-accident examination of the engine or airframe. The aftermarket foam air filter for the carburetor was loaded with trapped grit and had the appearance of having been in service for an extended period. The filter manufacturer recommends such filters be replaced each 100 hours or annually, whichever occurs first. -