Small Aircraft
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 40; Flight Crew Total 413; Flight Crew Type 20
Communication Breakdown
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Maintenance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
General None Reported / Taken
Procedure; Aircraft; Human Factors
We bought a plane out of state that needed a condition inspection (annual for experimental airplane). A local A&P was hired to do the inspection. I was told the inspection was completed; and the A&P was going to put the logbook entry in the mail. I then began flying the plane home. I didn't think much about not having the logbook entries in hand. Halfway back; the engine failed; and I was forced to make a sudden landing. I then began thinking about the logbook; knowing I might need to submit copies to the FAA. Realizing I didn't have a copy of the entry in hand; I called the A&P; who apparently hasn't mailed the entry yet. I then realized I had taken off in an airplane that wasn't legal.  Although the inspection had been performed; I didn't have the required paperwork to takeoff legally. I should have made sure I received the logbook entries before takeoff.
Pilot reported flying aircraft without proper maintenance inspection documentation.