What happened
On August 19, 2025, at 16:40 CDT, a Vans RV-6A, registration N692AC, was involved in an accident near Centerview, Missouri. The flight was being conducted under Part 91 regulations for the purpose of pilot familiarization with the aircraft type.
The pilot reported that the engine runup prior to departure was normal. After performing maneuvers at 4,500 feet MSL, the pilot began an approach toward Skyhaven Airport (RCM) in Warrensburg, Missouri. During the flight, the pilot noted that while the engine sounded normal, it was not producing sufficient power. The pilot intended to reach RCM to perform a magneto check and re-examine the engine.
Approximately three miles from the airport, the pilot executed the before-landing checklist, which included changing the fuel tank selection, activating the fuel pump, and verifying the fuel mixture was in the rich position. Upon reducing the throttle by approximately one-quarter inch, the pilot heard a "slight pop," after which the engine lost all power. Despite attempting to change fuel tank selections and adjusting the throttle, the pilot could not restore engine power. The pilot then selected the right fuel tank, deployed the flaps, and performed a forced landing into a cornfield. The pilot noted the aircraft was not equipped with a stall warning system and that the aircraft stalled while over the cornfield prior to impact.
As a result of the accident, the pilot sustained one minor injury, and the passenger was not injured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.