What happened
On November 3, 2025, at approximately 0830 mountain standard time, a Cirrus SR22, registration N237RJ, was involved in an accident near Sedona, Arizona. The flight was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
According to the pilot, the preflight inspection revealed no issues, and fuel levels were approximately 30 gallons per side. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft appeared to operate normally. However, shortly after rotation, the engine suffered a partial loss of power. Because there was insufficient runway remaining to abort the takeoff, the pilot continued the takeoff sequence.
During the initial climb, the pilot observed a further loss of engine power and a decrease in airspeed. Realizing the aircraft could not return to the airport, the pilot deployed the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). The aircraft subsequently descended under the parachute canopy onto desert terrain.
There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the aircraft showed that the empennage and forward fuselage sustained substantial damage. The wreckage was moved to a secure location for further study.