Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary ATL95LA161

CLANTON, AL, USA

Aircraft #1

N800RK

RONSRANS R 12

Analysis

The private pilot noticed that the engine was developing 100 RPM less than normal in the initial climb following liftoff. The pilot began to execute a forced landing and pulled back the throttle. He then gave the engine full power and stalled, resulting in a collision with a fence and the ground. A heavy coating of fuel and oil mixture was found on the spark plugs. The examination of the engine revealed that the carburetor was set excessively rich, and/or the fuel oil mixture was mixed incorrectly.

Factual Information

On August 19, 1995, about 0820 central daylight time, a Ronsrans R 12, N800RK, collided with a fence and then the ground, during takeoff at Clanton, Alabama. The registered ultralight aircraft was operated under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91, and visual flight rules. A flight plan was not filed for the personal flight. The private pilot and his passenger were seriously injured, and the ultralight was substantially damaged. The flight was originating at the time of the accident. The FAA inspector who visited the accident site reported that the pilot lost control during his departure and collided with the ground. According to the pilot, the engine was producing 100 RPM less than normal on takeoff, and he stated, "the plane didn't want to climb or takeoff." He decided to make a precautionary landing, selected a suitable location, and pulled back the throttle. The pilot realized that there was a fence below, and gave the engine full power, but the aircraft stalled and collided with the fence. An examination of the ultralight revealed that the flight controls were connected and operable. The American Motor Works (AMW) engine did not run during the engine examination due to the impact damage, however, the compression check was satisfactory. The FAA inspector closely examined the spark plugs and he found a heavy coat of fuel and oil mixture on them. He also stated, "It appears the carburetor was set excessively rich, and or the fuel oil mixture had been mixed incorrectly."

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain proper flying speed, and the improper mixture of the fuel.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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