29 Feb 2020: Zenith CH601 XL

29 Feb 2020: Zenith CH601 XL (N601ND) — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Cabool, MO, United States

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to failure of the No. 1 cylinder piston for reasons that could not be determined based on available evidence.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

On February 29, 2020, at 1534 central standard time, an experimental amateur-built Zodiac 601XLB, N601ND, was involved in an accident near Cabool Memorial Airport (TVB), Cabool, Missouri. The pilot and passenger were uninjured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot, the cockpit "suddenly" filled with black smoke after departing TVB. The engine then sputtered and ceased operating. He attempted to return to TVB but landed in a field short of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.

Postaccident examination of the engine revealed the No. 1 cylinder piston was broken in two pieces, and the piston crank link was bent. The reason for the failures was unknown.

Contributing factors

Recip eng cyl section — Failure
Recip eng cyl section
Contributed to outcome

Conditions

Weather: VMC, wind 200/06kt, vis 10sm

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