Incident Details
During a flight, the pilot reported that the engine seemed to lose power and produced a soft abnormal sound. The pilot performed standard emergency procedures, including the application of carburetor heat, but these measures did not restore engine power. Noticing an airport below, the pilot attempted to land. After two unsuccessful attempts, the airplane stalled on the third approach. The aircraft struck a 75-foot tree before falling to the ground.
Pilot Actions
The pilot stated that she executed the emergency checklist, which included using carburetor heat. Despite following prescribed procedures, the engine continued to operate abnormally. The pilot then sighted an airport and made two landing attempts, both of which were aborted. During the third attempt, the airplane entered an aerodynamic stall, leading to impact with the tree.
Examination Findings
Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the airplane. The inspection revealed a quarter-inch crack in the number four cylinder at the junction of the barrel and head. The cylinder was identified as a chrome-plated type. According to the engine manufacturer's service letter, such cylinders are required to be overhauled at 2,400 hours of operation. The engine in question had accumulated 888 hours since its last major overhaul.