Accident Overview
On September 2, 2021, at approximately 1045 central daylight time, a Beech A35 airplane, registered as N8419A, was substantially damaged when it struck trees and became suspended near Morrilton, Arkansas. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pre-Accident Flight
The passenger reported that he had recently purchased the airplane and was flying it to his home airport accompanied by the pilot. Both had flown the airplane before the purchase and for familiarization, during which it operated normally. The accident flight departed Ada Regional Airport (ADH) in Ada, Oklahoma, at about 0910 with an intended fuel stop at Searcy Municipal Airport (SRC) in Searcy, Arkansas, a distance of approximately 244 nautical miles.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
The pilot stated that the cruise altitude was 8,500 ft mean sea level. After about 1.25 hours on the left fuel tank, the pilot switched to the rear auxiliary fuel tank, and fuel pressures were normal. Approximately 7 to 8 minutes later, the engine suddenly lost all power while the propeller continued windmilling. The pilot switched the fuel selector to the right tank and attempted to restart the engine without success. He then selected the left tank and, after descending through a cloud layer, again could not restart the engine. Below the clouds, the pilot switched to the right fuel tank; power returned for 5 to 10 seconds but was then lost again. The pilot attempted to glide to Morrilton Municipal Airport but lacked sufficient altitude. The airplane impacted trees and came to rest suspended in them.
Postaccident Examination
An examination of the airframe and engine found no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. Fuel was present in the lines and the fuel selector. A bench test of the electric fuel pump showed normal operation. Both fuel tanks were breached during impact, preventing determination of the fuel quantity.