Accident Details
On October 17, 2025, at approximately 13:20 mountain standard time, a Flight Design GMBH CTSW (registration N531CT) was substantially damaged during an accident near Casa Grande, Arizona. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, received minor injuries. The aircraft was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, before departure he sumped the fuel tanks and found no water or contaminants. He also verified that there were 12 gallons of fuel on board by viewing the fuel sight tubes at the root of the overhead wings. The engine runup, departure, and climb were uneventful.
Approximately 25 minutes into the flight, the engine speed slowed unexpectedly. Advancing the throttle did not change the engine speed, and about 15 seconds later, the engine lost total power. The pilot then attempted three restarts. During the first restart, the engine started and ran normally for about 5 to 10 seconds before losing total power again. During the second restart, the engine ran with partial power for about 5 to 10 seconds, followed by a total loss of power. The third restart attempt was unsuccessful.
Emergency Landing
The pilot maneuvered the aircraft toward the destination airport and transmitted a mayday call over the radio. Realizing that there was insufficient altitude to reach the airport, the pilot performed an off-airport landing on desert scrub. Upon touchdown, the airplane nosed over, which substantially damaged the fuselage and rudder assembly. The pilot exited the airplane unassisted.
Recovery and Examination
The airplane was recovered to a secure facility for further examination.