Accident Overview
On May 27, 2025, at about 1330 mountain daylight time, an experimental amateur-built RANS S20 Raven, bearing registration N327KM, was substantially damaged in an accident near Fairfield, Utah. The aircraft was being operated as a personal flight under 14 CFR Part 91. The pilot, who was the only person on board, was not injured.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot's account, the accident occurred shortly after takeoff from the West Desert Airpark (UT9) in Fairfield. While climbing through approximately 800 feet above ground level, the engine suffered a total loss of power. At the same time, an error message appeared on the multi-function display. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unable to restore power. He then executed a forced landing onto a field covered with vegetation.
Damage and Recovery
The airplane sustained substantial damage to its fuselage during the hard landing on the vegetated field. It was recovered to a secure location for further examination.