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Casualties unknown

Pilot Makes Precautionary Landing in Muddy Field After Engine Temperature Rise (N448DH)

Brinkley, AR, US

On February 1, 2001, a Beech BE-58 (registration N448DH) was involved in an aviation accident near Brinkley, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's poor inflight planning and decision making which resulted in his executing a precautionary landing in a soft field. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the precautionary landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot performed a precautionary landing in a muddy field after observing rising cylinder head and oil temperatures on the right engine. Subsequent engine and gauge tests revealed no anomalies. Toxicology testing found multiple impairing medications not reported on the pilot's medical application.

Incident Details

During cruise flight, the pilot noticed the right engine cylinder head temperature (CHT) rising above 350 degrees and the oil temperature climbing above the top of the green arc. The pilot secured the engine and informed air traffic control that he needed to land at an alternate airport. Controllers repeatedly provided the location and distance to the nearest airport. The pilot reported that he was looking for the airport but was unable to control the airplane. He did not locate the airport and executed a precautionary landing to a muddy field. Neither propeller was found in the feathered position.

Investigation Findings

FAA inspectors examined the flight and engine controls and found no anomalies. Both engines were test run at 1,500 rpm at the accident site and subsequently in a test cell at various power settings for two hours with no anomalies noted. The CHT gauge was examined by the airframe manufacturer and no anomalies were found. Continuity was confirmed for the wiring from the right CHT probe to the CHT gauge.

Toxicology Report

Toxicological testing of the pilot revealed 2.296 ug/ml nefazodone (an antidepressant) detected in serum. The pilot's medical records indicated routine use of nefazodone as well as alprazolam (a tranquilizer) and zolpidem (a medication for insomnia). All three medications have potential effects on performance. FAA medical records showed that the pilot did not report the use of these drugs on his most recent medical application. The FAA considers these drugs disqualifying for issuance of a medical certificate.

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Feb 2001 Beech BE-58 accident near Brinkley, AR?

A pilot performed a precautionary landing in a muddy field after observing rising cylinder head and oil temperatures on the right engine. Subsequent engine and gauge tests revealed no anomalies. Toxicology testing found multiple impairing medications not reported on the pilot's medical application.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Feb 2001 involved a Beech BE-58, registration N448DH, at Brinkley, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's poor inflight planning and decision making which resulted in his executing a precautionary landing in a soft field. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the precautionary landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010202X00391. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.