NTSB Factual Report

On August 20, 2005, at approximately 1010 Pacific daylight time, a Tichacek, Preceptor, N-3 PUP experimental homebuilt, N7702X, was destroyed when it impacted a shed following a loss of power near Mead Flying Service Airport, Mead, Washington. The non-certificated pilot, the sole person on board, was seriously injured. The pilot/builder was operating the airplane under Title 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local personal flight which was originating at the time of the accident. A flight plan had not been filed.

The pilot said that he had flown this airplane before, but this was the first flight with this engine. He said that immediately after takeoff the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot told the Federal Aviation Administration Inspector that he did not want to land in a housing area at the end of the runway; therefore, he reversed his flight path by applying full left rudder. The first responders found that the airplane had impacted a shed approximately 150 yards past the departure end of runway 34; the pilot said the airplane came to rest on airport property. The airplane's left wing was broken and nearly separated from the fuselage; the pilot experienced a broken back and pelvis.

NTSB Probable Cause

The total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing.