On June 30, 1993, a Beech C23 (registration N66347) operated by Michael H. Hardy was involved in an aviation accident near Montgomery, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A POWER LOSS DUE TO A COLLAPSED AIR DUCT AND A CONSEQUENT BLOCKAGE OF INDUCTION AIR, WHICH RESULTED IN A FORCED LANDING AND AN ON GROUND COLLISION WITH A DITCH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced engine power loss after takeoff, leading to a forced landing in a field. The aircraft struck a ditch, collapsing the landing gear. Post-accident examination revealed a collapsed air intake duct assembly, with no damage to the lower engine cowling.
Accident Sequence
After becoming airborne, the airplane's engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing in a field located just beyond the departure end of the runway and to the side. During the landing, the airplane struck a ditch, causing the landing gear to collapse.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) conducted an examination of the airplane. They found that the air intake duct assembly had collapsed. Additionally, the lower engine cowling was reported to be undamaged.
Findings
The investigation documented the engine power loss and the subsequent forced landing. The collapsed air intake duct assembly was noted, as was the absence of damage to the lower engine cowling.