Modified RV Down Near Bakersfield, CA

A pilot and his young passenger were lost Saturday morning, when their Harmon Rocket II aircraft impacted a field six miles southwest of Bakersfield, CA.

The FAA states the accident occurred at approximately 10:40 am Saturday, based on an ELT signal received by satellite. There was no reported radio contact between the Meadows Field tower and the accident aircraft.

Authorities identified the two persons onboard as pilot John Edward Lauer, 71, and 12-year-old passenger Robert Shelby Swobota. FAA records show the accident aircraft, N604JL, was registered to John and Beverly Lauer.

Witnesses told police the plane was flying at low altitude performing roll manuevers when it impacted the ground.

The Harmon Rocket (file photo of type, above) is a modified version of the Vans RV series of homebuilt aircraft. Invented by John Harmon, the Rocket I is based on the single place RV-3 aircraft; the Rocket II, on a two-seat RV-4. Both aircraft sport several unique components, including a modified wing planform and several engine parts upgrades.

Homebuilders purchase Rocket modification kits separate from their aircraft kits; Dick VanGrunsven, the designer of the RV-series, maintains an official posture of opposition to any modifications to his planes. Builders add the Rocket components when building their aircraft.

FMI: www.faa.gov, www.harmonrocket.com