Accident Details
On April 3, 2021, at approximately 0730 central daylight time, a Beech B35 airplane, registration N5240C, sustained substantial damage during an accident near Pearland, Texas. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight, carrying the pilot and three passengers. None of the occupants were injured.
According to the pilot, a thorough preflight and engine runup were conducted with no anomalies. The pilot performed a short-field takeoff from a grass runway and lowered the airplane's nose to gain airspeed while in ground effect. Shortly after, the pilot noted a change in engine sound and observed the engine lacking its normal power, with the rpm dropping to 2,100. Unable to climb above a set of powerlines in the flight path, the pilot decided to fly under them. While maneuvering to land in an open field, the right wing struck a tree, separating the wing from the fuselage. The pilot then landed the airplane on its belly, skidding across the grass before coming to rest. The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.
Pilot and Maintenance History
The pilot stated that he purchased the airplane in October 2020 and that it had undergone extensive maintenance to address excessive engine rpm issues. The airplane flew without incident for the first time on the day before the accident. A mechanic examined the airplane just before the accident flight and found no anomalies.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination of the engine revealed a crack between the No. 1 cylinder head and bore. According to the maintenance records, on October 1, 2016, all six cylinders were removed and replaced with serviceable cylinders and new piston rings. At the time of installation, the cylinders had 324.3 hours since overhaul. It is estimated that the cylinders accumulated about 60 hours between installation and the accident.