N35WT

On August 13, 2022, about 1400 eastern daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Thomas Flyer, N35WT, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at Ridgeview Airport (12ME), Searsmont, Maine. The commercial pilot received minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot, this was the first flight of the airplane in 5 years. An aviation mechanic flushed the fuel tanks several times to ensure they were clean and just approved the condition inspection. After making several engine run-ups, the pilot taxied to the active runway and took off. As the airplane climbed between 300 and 500 ft above the ground, the engine sustained a “very brief” stutter, then failed completely. The pilot completed a 180° turn back to the runway; however, after the turn the airplane did not have enough altitude to make it back to the runway and it impacted rough terrain. The airplane’s fuselage and wings were substantially damaged.

Examination of the engine by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector and an airframe and powerplant mechanic did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Damage to the propeller prevented the engine crankshaft from turning 360°; however, valvetrain continuity was observed during the crankshaft’s partial rotation. The spark plugs were removed and showed normal wear signatures. The carburetor had separated from the engine and a trace amount of debris was observed in the bowl. Examination of the fuel tanks revealed 15 gallons of fuel in the left tank and approximately 5 in the right tank. The right fuel tank was breached and leaking fuel at the accident site. The pilot stated that he took off with the fuel selector positioned on the left fuel tank position.