Amateur-built EUROPA N149RS accident near Beloit, Ohio

Probable cause

The pilot’s incapacitation in flight due to a cardiovascular event.

NTSB analysis

A witness reported seeing the pilot depart the airport in the experimental amateur-built airplane. Shortly thereafter, an individual checking on crops found the wreckage of the airplane in a soybean field about ½ mile from the airport. First responders noted the smell of fuel at the accident site. An examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any pre-impact abnormalities. The engine examination found signatures consistent with rotation at the time of impact with terrain.

The pilot had previously been issued a special-issuance medical certificate; however, at the time of the accident, he was flying under the sport pilot rules for medical requirements. A review of the pilot's medical records and autopsy report revealed a history of coronary artery disease and old scarring of the heart muscle. These factors increased the risk of a cardiovascular event that could result in sudden impairment or incapacitation. The autopsy report noted that a contributing factor to the cause of death was coronary artery disease and chronic hypertension. Therefore, it is likely that pilot experienced in-flight incapacitation due to a cardiovascular event.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15FA281 for the full record.