Probable cause
A loss of engine power during cruise for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The builder/pilot was flying the experimental airplane on a local flight. About 40 minutes after takeoff the pilot noted a loss of fuel pressure and he activated a second electric fuel pump, which corrected the problem, but only for a few seconds. The engine subsequently lost all power and nosed over during the resulting forced landing. The personnel on scene determined that the airplane had more than 10 gallons of fuel on board. During the post-accident examination of the experimental Subaru automotive conversion engine, no definitive cause of the loss of fuel pressure could be found.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09LA215 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 25, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Redding, California
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built GLASTAR
- N-number
- N518PV
- 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.