Pilot Realized He Would Not Make It To The Runway And Subsequently Landed In A Stand Of Trees

Location: Eastsound, WA Accident Number: WPR22LA158
Date & Time: April 13, 2022, 11:45 Local Registration: N194XS
Aircraft: Europa XS Mono Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On April 13, 2021, about 1145 Pacific daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Europa XS Mono airplane, N194XS, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Eastsound, Washington. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.

The pilot reported that he was orbiting the airport, to confirm that previous modifications to the engine cooling system were working and decided to land. While on downwind for runway 34, he reduced airspeed, and lowered the landing gear and flaps, which utilized a single control lever. He stated that he had to “wrestle” with the lever to get it in the “locked” position, and while doing so, the engine lost all power. The pilot extended downwind so he could attempt to restart the engine, however, unable to restore engine power, he turned toward the runway. The pilot realized he would not make it to the runway and subsequently landed in a stand of trees about 2,000 ft south of the runway threshold.

Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the fuselage was structurally damaged. The airplane was recovered to a secure location for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov