N2417T

Substantial
Serious

SADLER TERRY RANS S-7 COURIERS/N: 0496185

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, October 1, 2011
NTSB Number
CEN12CA003
Location
Riley, KS
Event ID
20111003X55220
Coordinates
39.302223, -96.755279
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
1
Minor Injuries
1
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

A total loss of engine power during takeoff due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot’s inadequate preflight inspection and failure to ensure that the fuel shutoff valve was turned on before departure.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
SADLER TERRY
Serial Number
0496185
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
2003
Model / ICAO
RANS S-7 COURIER
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
RANS S-7 COURIER

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
MARMIC LLC
Address
PO BOX 473
City
RUSSELL
State / Zip Code
KS 67665-0473
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that he was finished flying for the day and had turned off the fuel shutoff valve and tied the airplane down. He noticed a family with a 10-year old boy at the airport and offered to give the boy a “quick ride around the field.” The pilot untied the airplane, put the boy in the back seat, started the engine and taxied to the runway. During take-off, about 30 feet above ground level, the engine stopped and the airplane impacted terrain and obstructions on the edge of the airport. The impact collapsed the left main landing gear and deformed the forward lower fuselage causing substantial damage. The pilot reported that he had failed to complete a preflight cockpit check and turn on the fuel shutoff valve. In addition, the pilot reported that shoulder harnesses were installed and available, but were not worn.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN12CA003