Summary
On May 12, 2015, at 10:30 local time, a privately operated Flight Design CTLS (registration F-JVTE) suffered an engine failure during approach to Bex Aerodrome (LSGB). The pilot, a French citizen born in 1945, held a Private Pilot License (PPL(A)) with 1,900 total flight hours, including 50 hours on the type and 30 hours in the preceding 90 days. The flight was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and was of a private nature.
Sequence of Events
During the flight, the pilot was unable to select the left fuel tank, resulting in a complete engine stoppage. The aircraft was positioned on final approach to runway 33 for an emergency landing. After touchdown, the airplane could not be brought to a stop before the end of the runway. In response, the pilot elected to deviate to the left, and the aircraft departed the runway, coming to rest in an adjacent field.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained damage to the left main landing gear. No other damage was reported. The pilot and one passenger were reported as uninjured or with minor injuries.
Investigation
The Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (STSB) conducted a summary investigation. The report noted that the pilot's inability to select the left fuel tank led to the engine stoppage and subsequent forced landing.