Accident Overview
On August 30, 2016, at approximately 0855 central daylight time, a Republic RC3 amphibian airplane, registration N6490K, executed a forced landing near Post Oak, Missouri. The private pilot sustained serious injuries, and the airplane incurred substantial damage. The aircraft was registered to and operated by a private individual under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident.
Pilot Report
The pilot informed a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector that the flight had just departed from a private airfield. During the flight, he perceived a loss of engine power in a cylinder and attempted to return to the airfield. Unable to maintain altitude, he opted for a forced landing in a field. During the approach, the airplane lost altitude and struck trees, coming to rest nose-down among several trees.
On-Site Examination
Examination of the aircraft at the scene revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. Fuel was present at the site.
Engine Examination
An FAA inspector conducted an examination of the engine. During a cylinder compression check, the No. 1 cylinder exhaust valve was not seating, and air was leaking past the piston rings on the other cylinders. Compression readings across all engine cylinders were low. Additionally, the cylinders exhibited signs of rust. The pilot reported that the airplane had been idle for approximately four years before being returned to service. The aircraft had accumulated only about two hours of flight time after being returned to service prior to the accident flight.