NTSB Factual Report

On August 5, 2008, approximately 0950 mountain daylight time, a Flynn Van Munk single-engine experimental airplane, N41832, piloted by a commercial pilot, was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain near Erie Municipal Airport (EIK), Erie, Colorado. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The personal flight was being conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot sustained minor injuries and the passenger sustained serious injuries. The local flight departed EIK approximately 0945.

The pilot stated that he conducted a normal preflight check of the airplane which was found to be satisfactory. A normal engine start preceded the aircraft being taxied to the fuel dock where 11.2 gallons of 100 low lead were added to the fuel tanks. Following the re-fueling, the pilot taxied to the ramp and conducted a run-up procedure. After obtaining normal engine operating temperature readings, normal pressure readings, and conducting a magneto check, the pilot taxied to runway 33 and departed with the engine producing power at about 2,300 rpm. The pilot reported that at 200 feet above ground level the engine experienced a sudden drop in power to 1,900 to 2,000 rpm. At the same time the engine began to run roughly. The airplane became difficult to control, and the pilot experienced four to five deep rolls to angles beyond sixty degrees, and he had difficulty maintaining pitch control. The pilot executed a forced landing in a field.

Several witnesses reported that the airplane lost power after departing from EIK. According to the Federal Aviation Administration Inspector who traveled to the scene, the airplane impacted terrain in a right wing low attitude and cart wheeled. The outboard three feet of the right wing separated and the empennage separated partially from the fuselage and was bent to the left 90 degrees.

Examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies that would prevent the engine from producing rated power prior to impact. Further examination of the airframe established control continuity from the flight controls to all control surfaces. Examination of the fuel system revealed a sample from the left wing that was blue in color and clear of contaminants and water. The right tank sump quick-drain valve was open, the tank empty, and had been drained by the recovery crew.

Weather information obtained from the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport located six miles south of EIK indicated a temperature of 22 degrees Celsius and a dew point 15 of degrees Celsius at the time of the accident. According to the carburetor icing chart conditions at the time/location of the accident were conducive to serious icing at glide power. According to the pilot, he has never experienced carburetor icing issues in the past and did not feel the engine was susceptible to carburetor icing.

NTSB Probable Cause

A loss of engine power due to carburetor icing. The reason for the loss of aircraft control was not determined.