Accident Overview
On December 19, 2022, at approximately 1505 central standard time, a Beech A36 airplane, registration N8137P, was substantially damaged in an accident near Harrison, Arkansas. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Flight and Engine Failure
According to the pilot, the airplane was topped off with fuel before departure. The flight was normal until the pilot reached the initial approach fix for the RNAV 18 approach at Boone County Airport (HRO). After canceling his instrument clearance due to visual contact with the airport, the approach proceeded normally until short final, when the engine stopped producing power. The pilot attempted to restore engine power by switching fuel tanks, but was unsuccessful. He then performed a forced landing to a field about one mile short of the runway.
Damage and Post-Impact Fire
During the forced landing, the airplane’s fuselage was substantially damaged, and a post-impact fire ensued, consuming a majority of the fuselage.
Engine Examination
The airplane was transported to a secure facility for examination. The engine showed signs of exposure to the post-impact fire. All 12 spark plugs were removed, bench tested, and operated normally. The rocker box covers and engine-driven fuel pump were removed. Hand rotation of the propeller established thumb compression, valvetrain continuity, and crankshaft continuity to the accessories. Cylinders inspected via borescope were unremarkable. Both magnetos were removed and operated with a powered drill; the ignition harness sustained thermal damage and could not be tested. The fuel flow divider was unremarkable, and all fuel nozzles were clear of debris. The fuel-air mixture unit was examined; all arms remained connected and the throttle arm moved freely. The fuel screen was clean of debris. Metal propeller blades exhibited chordwise scratches on the cambered side, as well as nicks and gouges on the leading edges.
Fuel System Limitations
Due to the post-impact fire, a thorough examination of the airplane’s fuel system was not possible.