NTSB Factual Report

On July 7, 2003, at 1300 eastern daylight time, a homebuilt Falco F.8L, N33LW, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a total loss of power while departing from the Ashland County Airport (3G4), Ashland, Ohio. The certificated private pilot was seriously injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a visual flight rules flight plan was filed for the personal flight destined for the Chautauqua County Airport (JHW), Jamestown, New York. The flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

According to the pilot, as the airplane was climbing, about 100 feet above the ground, the engine suddenly lost all power. The pilot performed a forced landing to a grass field with the landing gear retracted. Upon touchdown, the airplane slid to a stop and came to rest upright.

A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage after the accident and observed that the engine air intake SCAT duct tubing had lost its internal support spring structure strength, allowing the tube casing to be sucked inward, which restricted the air intake.

The most recent annual inspection performed on the airplane was completed on May 10, 2003.

According to 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix D - Scope and Detail of Items (as Applicable to the Particular Aircraft) To Be Included in Annual and 100 Hour Inspections:

"Each person performing an annual or 100 hour inspection shall inspect (where applicable) components of the engine and nacelle group as follows:

(1) Engine section - for visual evidence of excessive oil, fuel, or hydraulic leaks, and sources of such leaks.

(2) Studs and nuts - for improper torquing and obvious defects.

(3) Internal engine - for cylinder compression and for metal particles or foreign matter on screens and sump drain plugs. If there is weak cylinder compression, for improper internal condition and improper internal tolerances.

(4) Engine mount - for cracks, looseness of mounting, and looseness of engine to mount.

(5) Flexible vibration dampeners - for poor condition and deterioration.

(6) Engine controls - for defects, improper travel, and improper safetying.

(7) Lines, hoses, and clamps - for leaks, improper condition and looseness.

(8) Exhaust stacks - for cracks, defects, and improper attachment.

(9) Accessories - for apparent defects in security of mounting.

(10) All systems - for improper installation, poor general condition, defects, and insecure attachment.

(11) Cowling - for cracks, and defects."

(This narrative was modified on January 26, 2005.)

NTSB Probable Cause

A loss of engine power due to the failure of the engine air intake duct tubing, which resulted in a total blockage of the induction inlet duct. A factor related to the accident was the inadequate 100-hour inspection by maintenance personnel.

(This narrative was modified on January 26, 2005.)