Accident Details
On June 4, 2011, at approximately 1415 central daylight time, a Boeing A75N1 (PT17) airplane, registration N50052, impacted a tree and a house near Freeman Field Airport (K3JC) in Junction City, Kansas. The commercial pilot and passenger were not injured, and the airplane was substantially damaged. The aircraft was registered to and operated by the pilot under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and the flight operated without a flight plan. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported a loss of engine power shortly after departure. He anticipated an engine rpm of 1,800 to 1,850, but the tachometer indicated 1,700 rpm and decreasing. The pilot altered his heading by 10 degrees to avoid higher obstacles; however, the airplane struck a tree and a house before a forced landing site could be located. Both wings were crushed, bent, and broken during the impact sequence.
Engine Examination
An Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector who examined the engine found that the number six cylinder had a measured compression of 34/80 and an air leak into the exhaust stack could be heard. Additionally, the ignition timing on the forward bank of spark plugs was delayed by 2.5 degrees, and the ignition timing on the rear bank was delayed by 5 degrees, resulting in a degradation of engine power. Further examination of the airframe confirmed control continuity to all flight controls.
Weight and Density Altitude
According to both the FAA and the pilot, the airplane was loaded to within 150 pounds of its gross take-off weight. Calculations of relevant meteorological data revealed that the density altitude was 3,350 feet.