Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate fuel management which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to
fuel starvation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the airplane reported that, during the preflight engine runup, he diverted his attention to a phone call and failed to switch the fuel selector to a fuel tank with adequate fuel. During the initial climb, the engine experienced a complete loss of power, and the pilot performed a forced landing in an agricultural field.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA162 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 27, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Somerton, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Somerton (54AZ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built 601 HDS
- N-number
- N918LN
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2017
- 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.