Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power during cruise flight for an undetermined reason.
NTSB analysis
The pilot/builder of an experimental, amateur-built airplane was in cruise flight at 1,000 feet above ground level when the engine started running rough. The pilot stated that he was unable to maintain altitude, and performed an emergency off-field landing on a road. During the landing roll the tailwheel broke; the pilot then lost control of the airplane, which impacted a metal pole, resulting in damage to the right wing forward spar. According to the pilot, the airplane had 4.5 gallons of fuel on board at departure and flew for 25 minutes prior to the accident. During examination of the airplane, the pilot/builder did not note any mechanical anomalies. The airplane was equipped with a non-certificated, 37.5 horsepower Volkswagen engine.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09CA361 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 21, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Sunrise, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Pompano Beach Airport (PMP)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built
- N-number
- N824RS
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.