The Engine Began To “Shudder Violently,” And Lost Total Power

Location: Palmdale, CA Accident Number: WPR25LA055
Date & Time: December 5, 2024, 13:03 Local Registration: N144SD
Aircraft: Vans RV14 Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On December 15, 2024, about 1303 pacific standard time, an experimental amateur built Vans RV-14, N144SD, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Palmdale, California. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot stated that he was in cruise flight at 8,500 ft mean sea level (msl) about 45 minutes after departure when the engine began to “shudder violently,” and lost total power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful and declared an emergency with air traffic control and initiated a forced landing to an open area in the desert. During the landing roll,  the airplane struck vegetation, and the landing gear collapsed.

The responding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector reported that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the forward fuselage and left wing. The fuel tanks remained intact and contained an adequate quantity of fuel. The engine oil dipstick indicated adequate oil, and the exterior of the engine did not reveal any signs of catastrophic failure.

The airplane was retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov