Accident Overview
An agricultural spray airplane sustained substantial damage when it made a forced landing in a cornfield following a loss of engine power during cruise flight. The aircraft was returning to its base after completing its final spraying mission of the day. During the landing, the airplane impacted the terrain and skidded up on its nose.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the engine lost power and oil pressure while he was heading back to the airport. Smoke began pouring into the cockpit. He was over a wooded area at the time but managed to execute a forced landing in a cornfield. The airplane struck the ground and slid to a stop with its nose elevated.
Inspection Findings
Post-accident inspection revealed that one of the engine cylinders had failed. The engine was a 600-horsepower Pratt & Whitney R-1340-AN-2. Records indicated the engine had accumulated 1,026 hours since the last overhaul and 157 hours since the last annual inspection.
Aircraft History
The engine had been installed in the agricultural spray airplane. No other maintenance issues were noted in the records.