N9315K Consolidated-Vultee 108-M accident

On January 13, 2002, at 1700 central standard time, a Stinson 108M, N9315K, experienced a loss of engine power on the initial takeoff/climb from Roy E. Ray Airport in Bayou La Batre, Alabama. The airplane, registered to Consolidated-Vultee, was operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 CFR part 91. The personal flight was enroute from Bayou La Batre, Alabama to St. Elmo, Alabama. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident and no flight plan was filed. The private pilot received serious injuries and the airplane sustained substantial damage.

The pilot stated there were 20 gallons of fuel on board at takeoff. According to the pilot, the engine lost power at 400 feet above the ground during the climb out. The pilot stated that he established glide at 65-70mph and attempted an engine restart unsuccessfully. The pilot executed a left turn and collided with power lines approximately 35 above ground. The airplane subsequently came to rest in a nearby ditch about 400 feet from the end of the departure runway 36.

A review of weather data showed conditions favorable for the formation of carburetor icing; the temperature was 57 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 42 degrees Fahrenheit. Tests were performed on both magnetos, they both operated within normal parameters. A functional check of the engine was performed; the power was checked at 2700 rpm and results indicated that the engine ran smoothly at full power and at idle. Oil pressure was normal during the functional check. The functional check of the engine failed to disclose a mechanical malfunction or component failure.