Accident Overview
On December 22, 2024, at approximately 1639 mountain standard time, an experimental amateur-built Van’s RV-7A, registration N1FB, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Gila Bend, Arizona. The pilot reported minor injuries, and the passenger was not injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that about four minutes after departing Phoenix Goodyear Airport (GYR), Phoenix, Arizona, while leveling off at 4,400 feet mean sea level, he felt abnormal vibrations emanating from the engine. To troubleshoot, he slowly enriched the mixture, but the engine continued to run rough. He verified that the fuel selector was in the right fuel tank position and seated in the detent, the propeller control was full forward, and full throttle was applied; however, engine revolutions per minute (RPM) appeared to be decreasing. Manipulation of the mixture control had no corresponding effect, and the pilot noticed a lack of tension on the mixture control cable.
The pilot then moved the throttle control about halfway toward idle, which slightly reduced engine roughness, but the engine then appeared to lose total power. Applying full throttle produced a corresponding yet intermittent surge in engine power.
Emergency Response and Landing
The pilot contacted Albuquerque Center, reported an engine failure, and made a left turn toward Gila Bend Municipal Airport (E63), Gila Bend, Arizona. Unable to reach the airport, he initiated a forced landing in a field with tall desert vegetation. During the landing, the airplane nosed over.
Damage and Examination
Post-accident examination revealed that the left wing sustained substantial damage. The wreckage was recovered to a secure facility for further examination.