NTSB Factual Report

On February 18, 2006, at 1015 eastern standard time, a Champion 7FC, N7694E, was substantially damaged, while executing a forced landing after takeoff from Charles A. Chase Jr. Memorial Field Airport (44B), Dover-Foxcroft, Maine. The certificated private pilot received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the local personal flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, as the airplane reached an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet after takeoff from runway 27, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted, unsuccessfully, to restart the engine, then prepared for a forced landing. During the forced landing, the airplane impacted trees and then the ground.

Examination of the airplane by the FAA inspector revealed both fuel tanks were breached, however they were both one-forth full. The fuel was drained and no contamination was noted. The engine was rotated at the propeller flange and compression, and valve train continuity was confirmed on all cylinders. Examination of the carburetor revealed fuel in the accelerator pump, and the inlet screen contained no contamination.

The pilot reported to the FAA inspector that he removed the gascolator fuel bowl after the accident, and observed ice in the bottom. He also reported that he performed a complete preflight inspection prior to takeoff.

The weather reported at Bangor International Airport (BGR), Bangor, Maine, at 0953, included winds from 270 degrees at 11 knots, gusting to 16 knots, 10 miles visibility, broken clouds at 3,000 feet, overcast clouds at 4,000 feet, temperature 16 degrees Fahrenheit, dew point -2 degrees Fahrenheit, and an altimeter setting of 29.89 inches Mercury.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection, which failed to detect ice in the fuel system, resulting in a loss of engine power during takeoff-initial climb, and an in-flight collision with trees.