Tecnam P2008 | N298PM

The DTSB determines the Probable Cause of this accident to be Pilot Error, in that the CFI as PIC placed the aircraft in such a position such that the aircraft was forced to land on a highway at night, and struck highway objects. The aircraft was found to have sufficient fuel but likely contained significant water contaminants. It had been parked outside for two days in heavy rain prior to this flight and the new owner was known to not sump fuel tanks prior to flight. The aircraft turned towards the runway during the loss of thrust event, but stalled prior to reaching.

The DTSB recommends that all pilots of all aircraft carefully consider night flight in single engine aircraft, and avoid where possible. The DTSB also recommends thorough preflight and sumping of all tanks and fuel systems as routine. The DTSB recommends that pilots electing to fly in night conditions always fly at altitudes that could effect a safe off field landing if power plant problems occur in flight.