What happened
On May 22, 2024, at approximately 10:30 mountain daylight time, a Cessna 182C, registration N8580T, was on 5-mile final approach for runway 17 at the Vernal Regional Airport (VEL) in Vernal, Utah. During the approach, the pilot performed a brief slip to reduce altitude. As the aircraft reached approximately 3 miles from the runway, the pilot reduced engine power and extended the flaps to 40°.
Shortly after these configuration changes, the engine stumbled and experienced a total loss of power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful, leading to an emergency landing in an open field. The impact of the off-airport landing caused substantial damage to the fuselage. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries among the pilot and two passengers.