N518D

On June 8, 2024, about 0721 mountain standard time, an experimental amateur-built Rans S-12XL Airaile, N518D, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Picacho Peak, Arizona. The pilot sustained fatal injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to witnesses, the morning of the accident, the pilot departed La Cholla Airpark, Tucson, Arizona, about 0700 and flew northwest about 22 nm to the area of Picacho Peak State Park, Arizona. Witnesses that were hiking near the accident site reported that the airplane was flying close to the north side of the peak and subsequently impacted the ground about 81 ft below the peak. One of the witnesses checked the pilot’s vital signs and noticed a strong odor of fuel at the site.

Examination of the accident site revealed that the airplane came to rest in a nose-low attitude. Both wings, and empennage remained attached to the fuselage. Flight control continuity was established from the cockpit to each of the primary flight control surfaces. The wreckage was transported to a secure facility for further examination.