Incident Overview
On December 15, 2024, at approximately 1303 Pacific Standard Time, an experimental amateur-built Vans RV-14, registered N144SD, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Palmdale, California. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, reported no injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, the aircraft was in cruise flight at 8,500 feet mean sea level (msl) about 45 minutes after departure when the engine began to shudder violently and subsequently lost total power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. He declared an emergency with air traffic control and initiated a forced landing to an open area in the desert.
During the landing roll, the airplane struck vegetation, causing the landing gear to collapse. The responding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector reported that the forward fuselage and left wing sustained substantial damage. The fuel tanks remained intact and contained an adequate quantity of fuel. The engine oil dipstick indicated adequate oil, and the exterior of the engine showed no signs of catastrophic failure.
Post-Accident Examination
The airplane was retained for further examination to determine the cause of the power loss. The FAA is continuing its investigation.