On May 18, 1991, a Beech 23 (registration N3549R) operated by Headley, Charles E. was involved in an aviation accident near Dothan, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE CYLINDER HEAD BECAUSE OF PREVIOUS OVERHEATED OPERATIONS. FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT WERE THE PILOT'S INACCURATE APPROACH WHICH RESULTED IN THE LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AND SUBSEQUENT SWERVE INTO THE FENCE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb at about 800 feet MSL, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power. A close downwind leg led to overshooting the final approach centerline. The airplane landed with the left wheel on a taxiway and the right wheel on grass, then swerved into a fence.
Summary
During takeoff from an airport with an elevation of 150 feet, the pilot reported a loss of engine power at about 800 feet MSL during the initial climb. The pilot flew a close downwind leg, which resulted in overshooting the extended centerline when turning onto final approach. The airplane was landed with the left wheel on the parallel taxiway and the right wheel on the grass. After touchdown, the airplane swerved right and struck a fence.
Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that one cylinder head had broken away from the cylinder body. The fractured cylinder head showed evidence of overheating, exhaust gas impingement, and blackening of the fracture surface. The investigation did not specify a probable cause for the engine power loss or the cylinder head failure.
What happened in the 18 May 1991 Beech 23 accident near Dothan, AL?
During initial climb at about 800 feet MSL, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power. A close downwind leg led to overshooting the final approach centerline. The airplane landed with the left wheel on a taxiway and the right wheel on grass, then swerved into a fence.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 May 1991 involved a Beech 23, registration N3549R, operated by Headley, Charles E., at Dothan, AL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE FAILURE OF THE CYLINDER HEAD BECAUSE OF PREVIOUS OVERHEATED OPERATIONS. FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT WERE THE PILOT'S INACCURATE APPROACH WHICH RESULTED IN THE LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AND SUBSEQUENT SWERVE INTO THE FENCE.
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