What happened
On December 15, 2024, at approximately 13:03 PST, an experimental amateur-built Vans RV-14, registration N144SD, was operating under Part 91 regulations when it experienced a total loss of engine power. The aircraft was in cruise flight at 8,500 feet MSL, approximately 45 minutes after departure, when the pilot reported the engine began to shudder violently.
After unsuccessful attempts to restart the engine, the pilot declared an emergency with air traffic control and initiated a forced landing into an open desert area near Palmdale, California. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck vegetation, which caused the landing gear to collapse. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
An inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the aircraft and found substantial damage to the left wing and the forward fuselage. The investigation noted that the fuel tanks were intact and held an adequate amount of fuel. Additionally, the engine oil dipstick showed adequate oil levels, and there were no visible signs of catastrophic failure on the exterior of the engine.