What happened
While on approach to the destination airport, the pilot notified the air traffic control tower that the engine had failed but expressed an intention to attempt a landing at the airport. After being cleared to land on runway 3, the pilot indicated uncertainty regarding whether the aircraft could reach the runway.
A witness, operating an emergency services helicopter, monitored the distress communications and followed the aircraft to assist. The witness observed that the aircraft was flying extremely low and that the propeller was not rotating. The aircraft cleared a tree line approximately 200 yards south of the crash site and continued its descent into a clearing. Shortly after, the plane entered an approximate 20-degree left bank, impacted trees, and exploded.
The investigation
Following the accident, the engine was completely disassembled for examination. Investigators found no pre-impact anomalies during the teardown. However, all engine accessories were severely damaged by fire, rendering them untestable. A review of the engine logbook indicated that the engine had reached 511 hours of operation and was approximately one year past the manufacturer's recommended time between overhauls.
Findings
- The aircraft impacted trees and experienced an explosion upon contact.
- The engine was operating past its recommended overhaul interval.