Sep 12, 2007
Accident
Substantial Reno, NV
Injuries1 fatal
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
The overspeed of the modified racing engine during takeoff that created an oil mist on the exhaust and smoke, and the pilot's failure to maintain a speed above stall speed (Vs) during his attempted emergency landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's diverted attention due to the smoke and the reasonable belief that an in-flight engine compartment fire was occurring.
NTSB SEA07LA259