CHI94DCQ02

Immediately after takeoff a total loss of engine power occurred. The airplane had 170 gallons of fuel on board. The pilot stated that the fuel selector cable routing and length were questionable, the cable was old, and the possibility existed that it was not set correctly. The engine was placed on a test stand. It started and operated normally.

History of flight

On July 11, 1994, approximately 1400 hours central daylight time, a Mielec M-18 Dromader, N4367F, operated as an agricultural application airplane by Great Plains Spraying, Incorporated of Colby, Kansas, sustained an in-flight loss of engine power. The airplane landed in a cultivated field, nosed over and was substantially damaged. Approximately 15 gallons of chemical (Dimethoate) with 385 gallons of water was spilled. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time of the accident and no flight plan was filed. The flight operated under 14 CFR Part 137, and originated from Colby, Kansas, at 1400 hours.

The pilot stated that immediately after takeoff, at an altitude of 200 feet above ground level, the engine quit "as if the fuel had been shut off. I jammed the fuel shut off forward and turned the electric fuel pump on, but nothing changed my situation."

Personnel

The pilot held a commercial pilot certificate, with priveledges for single and multi engine land airplanes, and instrument airplane. He held a second class medical certificate with the restriction to wear corrective lenses. He had accumulated 13,660 hours of total pilot time.

Aircraft information

The airplane was a WSK PZL MIELEC M-18 Dromader, single reciprocating engine, single seat, agricultural aircraft. The last annual inspection had been completed on March 5, 1994. The engine had been overhauled approximately 20 hours prior to the accident, and was installed on June 10, 1994. The airplane had approximately 170 gallons of fuel on board at takeoff.

Wreckage and impact information

The airplane came to rest inverted approximately 1 1/2 miles southeast of the Colby airport. The fuselage exhibited twisting, the wingtips were damaged, and the vertical stabilizer, rudders and propeller were bent. No fire occurred. The pilot stated that the fuel selector cable routing and length was questionable, the cable was old, and there was a possibility that it was not set correctly.

Medical information

The pilot sustained minor injuries, cuts, bruises and abrasions. He was released after an overnight stay in the local hospital for observation.

Survival information

The occupant stated that he was restrained satisfactorily by the lap and shoulder harness.

Tests and research

The engine was placed on a test stand. It started immediately and operated normally.

Additional information

The wreckage was released to the owner and transported to Malden Ag-Craft, Inc., Municipal Airport, Hangar 253, Route 3, Box 1224, Malden, Missouri, 63863.