Primary finding
Probable cause
The total loss of engine power due to water contamination of the fuel system. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain available to the pilot for the forced landing and his inadequate preflight inspection.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The non-endorsed student pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power while attempting to return to the airport following intermittent power interruptions during climb out. The airplane impacted a levee during the landing roll and nosed over, coming to rest in the inverted position. The fuel system was found contaminated with water.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 29, 1994, at 1910 central daylight time, a Grumman G-164A, N526Y, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Searcy, Arkansas. The student pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the maintenance flight. According to the pilot, who was not endorsed for solo flight in the airplane, engine power was intermittently interrupted several times during initial takeoff climb. While attempting to return to the airport, a total power loss was experienced. During the landing roll, the airplane impacted a levee and nosed over, coming to rest in the inverted position. The operator stated that the airplane had been out of service for a long period of time and a maintenance test flight was required for the reconstruction of the airplane following wind damage. The operator further stated that water was found in the fuel system during the recovery of the wreckage. -