STRCASB Identification: STT003F014 . The docket is stored on visioneer_one's ancient Powerbook

Accident occurred : Sunday, March 31, 2003 at ST. THOMAS, VI
Aircraft : GSP P-47
Engine : OS Surpass .70
Pilot: "Jens"
Injuries: multiple, nonfatal.

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed.

On March 31, at approximately 1520 Atlantic standard time, a GSP P-47 nonregistered homebuilt airplane, was damaged following impact with terrain in St. Thomas, VI. The private pilot was not injured. The owner/pilot was operating the airplane under Title 14 CFR Part 103. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight that originated from Simón Pierre Field approximately 3 minutes before the accident. No flight plan had been filed.

During a WOT upwind pass the engine suddenly began sputtering and lost power. The pilot declared mayday to Simón Pierre TWR, turned downwind while attempting to maintain altitude, then turned for a short final approach. The flight terminated short of the field upon impact with an earth berm W of the runway. Subsequent examination of the aircraft revealed a cracked fuselage, damaged wingtip and broken right landing gear strut.

Addendum : The right gear strut had been repaired by welding the broken ends together twice before. Ref: STT003F013.

The St. Thomas R/C Association Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

INCORRECT CARBURETOR SETTINGS - TOO RICH
AIRSPEED.. NOT MAINTAINED.. PILOT IN COMMAND
PROPER GLIDEPATH.. NOT ATTAINED.. PILOT IN COMMANDD