NTSB Factual Report

On September 24, 2017, about 1410 eastern daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Avid SW 65, N65SW, operated by the private pilot, was substantially damaged during a forced landing, following a total loss of engine power during initial climb from a private airstrip near Darlington, South Carolina. The private pilot was seriously injured. The personal flight was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the flight that originated from Lumberton Regional Airport (LBT), Lumberton, North Carolina, about 1315.

The pilot reported that he had planned on landing at an approximate 700-foot turf runway used by a radio-controlled airplane club. In preparation for the landing, he performed a low-pass to examine the runway condition and check for any obstacles. Following the low pass, he initiated a left climbing turn, during which the engine lost all power. The pilot switched fuel tanks, but the engine did not regain power. The pilot then intentionally slowed and stalled the airplane just above trees and it collided with the trees and ground, coming to rest inverted. The pilot further stated that the fuel tanks were constructed of fiberglass and he used automotive gasoline in the airplane.

Initial examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the right wing had separated during impact and fuel had leaked from the right wing into the ground. The left wing remained attached to the fuselage and both were also substantially damaged. Subsequent examination of the wreckage by the pilot revealed that the fuel filter was clogged with dirt and fiberglass.

NTSB Probable Cause

A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of a clogged fuel filter.