Incident Summary
According to the pilot, the engine began exhibiting a missing condition at an altitude of 6,000 feet above mean sea level. The condition intensified, and the pilot was unable to correct it through available means. Air traffic control provided vectors to Princeton Airport.
Airport Conditions
At the time of the event, Princeton Airport was closed because snow had created ruts on the runway surface, and the runway lighting system was inoperative.
Landing
The pilot attempted to locate the runway but was unsuccessful. Consequently, the pilot executed a landing in an open area within the airport bounds. During the landing roll, the aircraft contacted an embankment, which brought the aircraft to a stop.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the engine revealed that the right magneto did not meet bench check standards. Additionally, the center electrodes of the spark plugs were eroded down nearly to the porcelain body.