What happened
On June 13, 2025, at approximately 15:31 EDT, an experimental RV-7A, registration N783RV, was involved in an accident near Interlachen, Florida. The aircraft was being operated under Part 91 regulations for a personal flight, traveling from Northeast Alabama Airport (GAD) in Gadsden, Alabama, to Melrose Landing Airpark (FD22) in Melrose, Florida.
While flying the downwind leg of the approach to FD22, the pilot reduced engine power to 1,200 rpm and noted a remaining fuel load of 25 gallons. As the pilot transitioned to the left base leg, he attempted to increase power; however, the engine failed to respond to the inputs and subsequently lost all power. The pilot attempted an engine restart but was unsuccessful, forcing a landing at the edge of a pond. The pilot sustained one minor injury.
The investigation
An inspection conducted by an FAA inspector following the accident found approximately 14 gallons of fuel in each fuel tank. The engine was found to contain approximately 5 quarts of oil.