Primary finding
Probable cause
Fuel system pump contamination and procedures/directives were not followed.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Shortly after takeoff the pilot heard two loud pops from the engine before it lost power. The pilot initiated a forced landing straight ahead. During the landing roll, the airplane collided with the airport boundary fence. During the engine inspection, it was found that the mechanical fuel pump contained rust like deposits which were partially blocking the fuel ports. In the event of a loss of power after take off, the procedure is to turn on the auxiliary boost pump. The pilot did not turn on the boost pump.
Source record
Factual narrative
On April 30, 1994, at 0848 Pacific daylight time, a Beech A24R, N24661, experienced a loss of engine power shortly after takeoff from Everett, Washington. The pilot initiated a forced landing where, during the landing roll, the airplane collided with an airport boundary fence. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the pleasure flight. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private pilot was not injured. The flight was en route to Arlington, Washington. The pilot reported that between 250 and 300 feet above ground level, just after takeoff, he heard two pops from the engine. The engine then lost power and the pilot initiated a forced landing straight ahead. During the landing roll, the airplane collided with a fence. During the engine inspection, it was found that rust like deposits were present in the mechanical fuel pump and was partially blocking the fuel ports. The Beech Operations Manual states that the boost pump is used for starting and is not on for take off and landing. However, for a loss of power after take off, the procedure is to turn on the boost pump. The pilot did not turn on the boost pump. -