Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to fuel starvation for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was performing aerobatics in an experimental airplane when the engine quit. The pilot attempted an emergency landing in a field but hit an unseen power line. The airplane lost control, impacted terrain and cartwheeled, causing substantial damage to the engine compartment, wings, aft fuselage and forward portion of upper cabin area. The pilot and the owner both told investigators that the engine quit due to fuel starvation to the engine caused by a vacuum created in the header tank. Investigators were unable to verify the configuration of the fuel system due to postaccident actions performed by the owner and the lack of information provided by the owner.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10LA046 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 10, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Siloam Springs, Arkansas
- Nearest airport
- Smith Field Airport (SLG)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built Mullicoupe
- N-number
- N273X
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.