Amateur-built Auriga N505JS accident near Rockford, Illinois

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on available information.

NTSB analysis

The pilot was conducting a local flight to evaluate recent modifications made to increase engine cooling when the engine “sputtered and quit” during cruise climb. The pilot was unable to restore engine power and made a forced landing at the departure airport. The airplane touched down about midfield on the wet turf runway and overran the end of the runway despite the pilot using maximum braking. The airplane traveled through the airport perimeter fence and onto a street where it was struck by an automobile. The airplane’s left wing and its rear spar attach point were substantially damaged during the accident.

Postaccident examination and engine test runs did not identify any anomalies or failures that would have resulted in a loss of engine power. The airplane had ample fuel available for the flight.

Although the auxiliary fuel pump output pressure was below the engine manufacturer’s minimum specification, no anomalies were identified with the engine-driven fuel pump during postaccident engine test runs. The reason for the total loss of engine power could not be determined with the available evidence.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20LA342 for the full record.