Accident Overview
On July 3, 2020, at approximately 1215 central daylight time, a Champion 7EC airplane, registration N9891B, was substantially damaged during an accident near Port O'Connor, Texas. The aircraft was operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The pilot and passenger were not injured.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, after adding fuel, he departed from Calhoun County Airport (KPKV) and flew along the coastline. About 15 minutes into the flight, the engine lost power. The pilot established best glide airspeed and turned the airplane toward land. However, the airplane could not maintain altitude and impacted terrain and brush about 400 yards from the coastline.
Aircraft Damage
A small post-crash fire developed in the engine compartment. Substantial damage was noted to the wing struts and bottom fuselage. Damage was also found on the main landing gear and propeller.
Engine Examination
The wreckage was recovered to a hangar for an engine examination. The examination revealed that the No. 3 intake valve was stuck in the open position, but a reason for the stuck valve was not identified. Additionally, the valve springs on all cylinders were weak; however, it could not be determined if this was due to heat from the post-crash engine compartment fire. No other pre-impact abnormalities were found.