Accident Overview
On August 28, 2021, at approximately 1934 central daylight time, a Cessna 320E airplane, registration N222L, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Windthorst, Texas. The pilot reported minor injuries. The flight was operated as a personal flight under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Flight History
According to the pilot, he had retrieved the airplane from Cox Field Airport (PRX) near Paris, Texas, and flew about 57 nautical miles to Sherman Municipal Airport (SWI) in Sherman, Texas. At SWI, he filled the airplane's six fuel tanks. He then departed SWI for Lubbock Executive Airpark (F82) in Lubbock, Texas, a distance of about 261 nautical miles.
Approximately 20 minutes after departure from SWI, the pilot detected a partial loss of power from the right engine. He observed that the fuel flow indication for that engine had decreased. Activating the electric boost pump restored power briefly, but the engine subsequently lost power again. The pilot did not switch fuel tanks and then shut down and feathered the right engine.
The pilot decided to divert to Olney Municipal Airport (ONY) in Olney, Texas, but the airplane could not maintain altitude. Realizing that the airplane did not have sufficient altitude to reach ONY, he executed a forced landing to a field. The pilot reported that the left engine continued to operate until he reduced power for the landing.
Damage and Examination
During the forced landing, the airplane struck trees, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. Postaccident examination was limited because the airplane had been disassembled for removal from the accident site. Examination of the right engine revealed suction and compression on all cylinders when the crankshaft was rotated. Both magnetos produced spark on all ignition leads when rotated by hand. Accessory gear continuity was confirmed when the crankshaft was rotated. The engine fuel controls were unavailable for further examination. No anomalies were noted with the right engine.
Maintenance Records
The airplane maintenance records were not available during the investigation.