About 35 Minutes After Take-Off, The Engine Started To "Surge"

Location: Encino, NM Accident Number: WPR20LA098
Date & Time: 03/04/2020, 1240 MST Registration: N505MA
Aircraft: Flight Design CTLS Injuries: 1 Minor

On March 4, 2020, about 1240 mountain standard time, a Flight Design CTLS airplane, N505MA, was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain following a partial loss of engine power near Encino, New Mexico. The pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was registered to an individual and operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91, and no flight plan was filed. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local flight that originated from Moriarty Municipal Airport (0E0), Moriarty, New Mexico.

During preflight, the pilot conducted a visual fuel level check through the sight gauges in each wing. He determined that right wing had 7 gallons of fuel and the left wing had 6 gallons of fuel which he deemed was enough for a one-hour local flight. About 35 minutes after take-off, the engine started to "surge". The pilot manipulated the throttle lever several times, but there were no corresponding responses from the engine. The pilot elected to land on a nearby road; however, as he turned from base to final for the road, the engine "surged to life." The landing gear contacted the grass, and the airplane subsequently came to rest inverted.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov