Accident Overview
On July 20, 2017, at approximately 1645 central daylight time, an amateur-built Canion Zodiac 601XL (registration N577M) sustained substantial damage during a forced landing in a field near Grady, Arkansas. The pilot, who was also the registered owner and operator, was not injured. The flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal flight in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan.
Flight Details
The aircraft departed Center Texas Municipal Airport (F17) around 1330, destined for Kirk Field Airport (PGR) near Paragould, Arkansas. About 90 minutes into the flight, the pilot lost power to the on-board avionics. Shortly after, the engine lost all power and the propeller began windmilling. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful.
Forced Landing
The pilot executed an off-airfield landing in a corn field. During the landing, the nose wheel dug into the ground, causing damage to the engine firewall and forward fuselage supporting structure.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination revealed a broken wire to the airplane's alternator. The broken wire supplied electrical power to the alternator field coil, rendering the alternator inoperative. The aircraft's engine had been modified with an electronic ignition system that relied on the airplane's electrical system. The electrical system comprised a battery and an alternator to maintain battery charge.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the engine firewall and forward fuselage structure.