Accident Details
On November 15, 2020, at about 1040 Pacific standard time, an experimental Air Creation Tanarg weight-shift control aircraft, registration N912SU, was substantially damaged when it collided with terrain near Pahrump, Nevada. The aircraft was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot sustained a minor injury.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that he was flying east toward Mt. Charleston at an altitude of about 400 ft above ground level (agl). He observed a herd of horses and began circling above them. After completing the last shallow turn, the pilot realized he was “a bit low.” He applied throttle, but the aircraft did not climb; instead, it descended and impacted the ground, resulting in substantial damage to the frame.
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft came to rest upright on uneven desert terrain with sparsely populated vegetation. All major components remained attached to the frame. The wings collapsed downward to the ground. The instrument panel separated but remained attached to the frame by wires. The three-bladed composite propeller sustained damage to all blades.
Investigation
Examination and a test run of the engine by an airframe and powerplant mechanic, overseen by a representative of the Federal Aviation Administration, revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The mechanic used the installed throttle assembly and reported that the throttle operated normally with no resistance.