On June 28, 2025, a Vans RV-10, registration N847CS, crashed near Capron, Illinois, resulting in 2 fatalities. The aircraft was being operated as a Part 91 instructional flight for the purpose of a flight review.
What happened
At approximately 0909 local time, the aircraft departed runway 23 from Waukegan National Airport (UGN). After takeoff, the aircraft climbed to approximately 3,300 feet mean sea level and performed maneuvers consistent with a flight review.
At 0931, the aircraft entered a right descending turn from 3,000 feet. The aircraft completed two 360-degree turns while continuing to descend. The aircraft then flew northwest for approximately 0.3 nautical miles before turning east. Final ADS-B data indicated the aircraft was descending at approximately 2,850 feet per minute with a calibrated airspeed of about 54 knots. The aircraft subsequently impacted a cornfield while heading west in a steep nose-down pitch attitude.
The investigation
Investigators found that all structural components and flight control surfaces were located at the site. While damage prevented confirmation of elevator and aileron control continuity, all observed separations in the control tubes and bearings were consistent with overstress. Rudder cable continuity was confirmed.
Both wing fuel tanks ruptured upon impact, though fuel blight was observed on surrounding vegetation. The engine-driven fuel pump functioned when operated by hand, and the fuel servo inlet screen was free of debris. A visual examination of the engine revealed no fractures in the crankcase or cylinders, and compression and suction were present in all six cylinders. The engine showed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure that would have prevented normal operation. The two-blade propeller remained attached to the crankshaft, though one blade exhibited significant bending and damage.
The aircraft's primary flight display, multifunction display, and electronic attitude indicator were sent to the NTSB Vehicle Recorder Laboratory for further examination.