Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT IN COMMAND TO USE THE CHECKLIST BEFORE TAKEOFF. THE ENGINE FAILED DUE TO THE FUEL SELECTOR BEING IN THE OFF POSITION. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN FOR A FORCED LANDING.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On May 1, 1994, about 1535 eastern daylight time, N323ET, a homebuilt Osprey airplane crashed at Sanford Airport, Sanford, Florida, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 local flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged and the pilot received serious injuries. The flight had originated about 30 minutes earlier.
The pilot experienced an engine failure on takeoff and turned to return to the airport. The airplane crashed into a ditch, and broke in half. Examination of the cockpit after the accident by FAA personnel revealed the fuel selector was in the off position.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# MIA94LA129